'The custodians of the natural world' - new project is connecting young people to Sheffield's landscapes

The LoudsPEAKer project is inspired by the landscape habitats of Kinder Scout and the Dark Peak, and is working to help students from Outwood Academy City in Sheffield to achieve deeper connections to the natural world through a range of creative opportunities.

As part of the National Trust People’s Landscapes, the LoudsPEAKer project has resulted in a series of powerful contemporary images, each telling their own story, which is being showcased in an exhibition at the Bloc Projects Gallery this month.

Over a period of three months, students worked collaboratively with INSTAR to co-produce a collection of unique designs inspired by their experience of being on Kinder Scout.

INSTAR artist Trish Evans said: “The imagery represents students confident within the landscape, whilst voicing the urgency and importance of protecting and connecting to the natural environment. This was key to the project’s vision, symbolising a connection vital for everyone, especially young people; the future custodians of Kinder Scout and the broader natural world.”

After transferring their designs onto one-off fashion items, students revisited Kinder Scout and the surrounding Dark Peak habitats, modelling their items in a fashion shoot with a difference; with guidance from the National Trust rangers.

The concept behind the images helped to tell the often-unseen story of conservation, maintenance and restoration work which is vital for the future of this very important upland.

National Trust ranger, Keith Hawkes, who led the students on their pilgrimage, said: “If we want future generations to love and enjoy the countryside today, it is absolutely essential that we allow access to land and encourage everyone to nurture, love and protect these incredible and vital habitats, ensuring these landscapes remain forever.”

The exhibition will run until November 23.