Acclaimed Oxford artist appointed as inaugural Artist in Residence
Earth Trust is thrilled to announce the appointment of JC Niala as the environmental charity’s first ever Artist in Residence.
Earth Trust launched its Artist in Residence programme last year to harness the power of creativity to reimagine our relationship with nature. By immersing an artist in the iconic landscapes and community of Earth Trust, the initiative aims to ignite wonder, appreciation and understanding of the local environment.
JC Niala, an award-winning interdisciplinary artist based in Oxford, was selected for her passion for collaborative, inclusive art that connects people more deeply with nature. As Artist in Residence, she will gather stories and inspiration from Earth Trust’s community of staff, volunteers, members and visitors to the Wittenham Clumps landscape.
“We are honoured to have JC as our inaugural artist in residence,” said Amy Rowland, Public Programming Manager at Earth Trust. “Her creative practice aligns perfectly with our goal to spark deeper connections with nature through immersive art experiences.”
JC plans to facilitate creative workshops open to all, combining poetry, sculpture and other art forms to bring people together in appreciation of nature. She intends to create an inclusive space where creativity and environmental awareness can flourish.
The residency will culminate in a collaborative legacy artwork incorporating nature-inspired designs and words from the community. JC envisions this piece will embody the voices, values and profound connection with nature felt by those involved. Above all, her art and residency activities will champion Earth Trust’s belief in accessible green spaces as essential for human and environmental wellbeing.
“I’m thrilled to have the chance to collaborate with Earth Trust’s community and landscapes,” said JC Niala. “My work is not just about artistic expression but a call to action, inspiring awareness and change in the ways we interact with our natural world and each other. Together we can use art, nature and storytelling to strengthen our relationship with these special landscapes, rediscovering our bond with nature so that together we can take steps to protect it.”
JC also plans to gift several smaller art pieces to Earth Trust to auction in support of its mission to connect people with nature.
To learn more about JC Niala’s inspiring practice, visit www.jcniala.com. Follow her creative journey over the next three months via Earth Trust’s website and social media channels.
JC will be facilitating two public workshops at the Earth Trust Centre in Little Wittenham during February, providing opportunities for the community to get creative and connect with nature. A family-friendly printmaking workshop using natural materials on Sunday 11th February, and a ‘Nature’s Verse’ Workshop, blending poetry and art for personal expression on Saturday 24th February. Details at earthtrust.org.uk/whats-on
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