Boats in Leigh Woods, yes all part of an Art Project by Luke Jerram. I spent an amazing lunchtime photographing them in bright spring sunlight.

Withdrawn – Leigh Woods.  We can change the course of the future by what we do today. Callum Roberts, Oceans of Life Withdrawn is a new artwork by Luke Jerram exploring ideas connected to the sustainability of our natural world. It has been commissioned by the National Trust, working in partnership with Forestry Commission England as part of Bristol 2015.  

Luke Jerram’s work often explores and expands our understanding of our role within our environment – both socially and ecologically. Our relationship to the sea has always held a particular fascination for the artist who wanted to both celebrate its mystery while challenging our perception of it as a never-ending resource.

Withdrawn is hidden in the depths of Leigh Woods, a beautiful and diverse ancient broadleaf woodland, set against the breath-taking backdrop of the Avon Gorge and Brunel’s world-famous Clifton Suspension Bridge. Here visitors will discover a flotilla of fishing boats resting in a tranquil glade. The quiet discord of the scene immediately prompts questions – how did the boats arrive here and what previous adventures had they been on? What environmental changes could lead to this scenario? Informed by conversations with fishermen, scientists, and specialists in marine life, Withdrawn asks us to reflect upon the impact humanity is having on our seas and how our oceans and climate are changing. Whether it is through commercial exploitation by overfishing, or climate change and pollution, the future of this complex environment is uncertain and there are many challenges ahead.

Over the summer of 2015 the boats will become host to an exciting programme of events exploring the many and different ways we connect to the sea, delivered in collaboration with our partners in Bristol. Click on the link to Withdrawn Events. Withdrawn is one of six arts projects funded by the Arts Council England Exceptional Fund as part of Bristol’s year as European Green Capital, with the aim of making sustainable living accessible and easy to understand. The Bristol 2015 arts and culture projects are being delivered by the national portfolio organisation Bristol Culture Development Partnership (BDCP), and will play a central part in encouraging the public to see sustainability in a new light.

Come and hear the 80 fabulous singers of the Bristol Youth Choir as they perform music about the sea and nature. Singing on top and around the five Cornish fishing boats they will entertain you with a wide selection of pieces from sea shanties from Cornwall and folk songs to ‘Green’ inspired music and even songs about recycling! The singers aged from 7-18yrs are well known in Bristol for their lively and entertaining concerts that are always full of gusto and enthusiasm.