The Isle of Wight National Landscape Partnership (formerly known as the AONB) has announced two new creative commissions as part of a national programme called Nature Calling.
This project invites Island residents to bring fresh voices and perspectives to the landscape through writing and film.
Two commissions now open
The programme includes two funded opportunities: a £2,000 writer’s commission and a £3,000 video/motion artist or filmmaker commission.
Nature Calling is a nationwide collaboration across 34 National Landscapes in England. The initiative is supported by DEFRA and Arts Council England.
Writers encouraged to explore local nature
The writing commission welcomes proposals from across the writing spectrum – including poetry, prose, rap, plays and song.
Writers do not need to have a background in nature writing, but should be interested in the Island’s nature, heritage, culture or wildlife.
The aim is to provide a new perspective on a chosen part of the Island’s landscape.
Writers will visit the area, explore its habitats, learn about important local species, and develop a piece of writing that responds directly to the site.
Filmmakers invited to document and respond
The second commission is for a video or motion artist who will document the development of the writing project and produce a creative response to it.
Artists working in motion-based disciplines – including digital, sculptural or performance-based forms – are encouraged to apply.
Proposals should focus on interpretive, site-specific or site-responsive work set within the designated Isle of Wight National Landscape.
Focus on inclusion and new audiences
The organisers are particularly keen to receive applications from people from the global majority who are based on the Isle of Wight.
They also encourage new collaborations between writers and filmmakers, although existing creative partnerships may also apply.
Support for applicants
A small access fund is available to help make the project more inclusive. Applicants can request this support via the application form or by emailing unit@isleofwight-nl.org.uk.
Anyone taking part will need to be willing to share and discuss their creative process as part of the wider programme.
Final works will be shared online by the Isle of Wight National Landscape team, the National Landscapes Association, and through Nature Calling’s website and social media.
To find out more or to apply, visit the Isle of Wight National Landscape website.
