An exploration of fragility and survival, seeking the parallels between nature and human society to create a Cumbrian song cycle for an age of disconnection. An evocation of contemporary struggle, the rising tide of social inequality and the changing environment around us, our rivers, woods and shores.We’re working across South Cumbria, predominantly in Barrow and Kendal with around 100 people affected by homelessness and substance & mental health issues, on a collaborative basis through poetry and music. Together we’re creating a series of artworks exploring lived experience and meaningful places that will form the basis of two exhibitions in local venues – the Dock Museum in Barrow and Abbot Hall Gallery in Kendal.

These fragile voices at the edge of society are the warning bell, the “bellwethers”, for our changing world. They need to be heard — they speak for the millions in Britain adrift in poverty and inequality, and for the fragility of everybody’s world.