The National Landscapes Association are looking to commission writers and artists to take part in a brand new £2M ground-breaking national project called Nature Calling. We are seeking an exceptional, diverse range of artists to explore and celebrate nature and our National Landscapes (formerly known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – AONBs), for a programme that culminates in a Season of art between May and October 2025.

The aim of Nature Calling is to listen to our communities and ensure our landscapes are a place for everyone. It will engage new audiences across England and inspire the whole National Landscapes family, whilst bringing the special qualities of our National Landscapes to the fore.

Nature Calling is a nationally significant partnership project Funded by Arts Council England and Defra (Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs), as well as National Landscapes in England (34 in total). Partners include the National Landscape Association, Activate Performing Arts, Poetry School, the six regional National Landscapes that will act as ‘hubs’ (Chilterns, Dorset, Forest of Bowland, Lincolnshire Wolds, Mendip Hills and Surrey Hills).

Working in partnership with Activate Performing Arts, Dorset National Landscape will be playing a key role in this exciting project as one of six hubs, focussed on Yeovil, where a lot of the activity will take place.

Find out more about the other hubs and their work here:
• Chilterns National Landscape
• Forest of Bowland National Landscape
• Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape
• Mendip Hills National Landscape
• Surrey Hills National Landscape

For more information read the Nature Calling Commissioning Brief includes details of how to apply.

More information about the Dorset National Landscape activity can be found as Appendix in the Brief and also as a separate document here.

If you would like to attend the Dorset Information Day for Artists on Thursday 2nd May 2024 please email Sue Dampney, Dorset National Landscape to register your interest and receive further information by Monday 29th April: sue.dampney@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

You may also find the Frequently Asked Questions document useful.

And visit the National Landscapes Association Website for more  information about the project and the work of National Landscapes.

The deadline for submissions is Midnight on 24th May 2024.