Nest Nature Journal

The Nest sits on a tarmac’d industrial park, but we are next to the canal, and – from above – you realise that there are many small green spaces within reach.

We believe that each of us has a responsibility to try and close the gaps between these green spaces: to make it a realistic short hop for creatures to travel from one to the next so that these patches can gradually (but quickly, as time is of the essence) join up: giving pollinators, invertebrates, birds and mammals connected green routes.

For us, part of our Regenerative Practice must involve trying to make spaces for nature – because it is beautiful and uplifting in and of itself, but also because we are in the midst of a climate and nature emergency and this feels like a way we can take action in the fight to prevent catastrophic biodiversity loss.

Regenerative Practice cannot only be about creating the spaces for climate conversations, or about normalising a way of life that is climate-conscious, meat-free, zero-waste, non-extractive, or about helping artists to consider ‘better’ materials and processes.

Choosing to act regeneratively means much more than that – it is about asking of ourselves, our building, and our work: how can the things we do bring, nurture, and support life?

How do we, as individuals/as an arts organisation, sequester carbon; store rainwater; purify the air; create soil; cool the climate; house biodiversity; celebrate awe; create the conditions for life to thrive?

As we make places for nature in our spaces, we are more able to find our own place within nature. In our experience ‘build it, they will come’ rings true – why not try it and see whether you agree?

The Nest Nature Journal is a space to regenerate through observation and recording: by posting thoughts, photos, sketches – any creative responses – to the nature in and around The Nest – both intentional and accidental.

Sometimes we organise collective observation and response time, but we also invite residents, friends and passers by to contribute! Please get in touch to add something.