After a few years of hibernation, our Nature Connections conference is back 24 & 25th June 2024 for a 6^th instalment! Since 2015 the event has taken place at the University of Derby, however, this year we’re heading to a great venue by river in Derby city centre. The Museum of Making at the Silk Mill is the site of the world’s first factory, a starting point of an industrial relationship with nature based on use and control, so a great place to start to here the very latest on forging a new relationship with nature.

Our keynotes speakers are Marian Spain (CEO of Natural England), Fiona Holland and Caroline Harvey on evaluating the impact of nature-based interventions for children and young people and Miles Richardson, plus closing reflections from Ryan Lumber.

As ever Nature Connections brings together researchers and practitioners interested in nature connection to share and discuss the latest research, ideas, and applications in the field.

The talks and a range of posters on the 24^th June will focus on nature connection and the human-nature relationship, sharing the latest projects involved with engaging people with nature. Highlighting the contribution to research, practice, people and nature. Themes will include nature connection for children and young people, education, health and wellbeing.  Tuesday 25 June has optional morning workshops. Further info and booking here.

The Silk Mill

Also, Associate Professor Caroline Locke is preparing to curate a collection of work to run alongside Nature Connections. The exhibition will take place at Derby Cathedral close to the Silk Mill. and will include work by the artists: John Newling, Rachel Jacobs, Beth Kettle, Craig Fisher, Angela Bartram, Chris Barnes, Stephanie Rushton, Paula McCloskey, Ismail Khokon, Debra Swann, Fiona Carruthers as well as her own ‘Tree Charter Bell’ which is a church tower bell used as part of tree planting ceremonies. Entitled “Our Stories Are Wild”, the exhibition will bring together artworks which focus on the human-nature relationship. Many of the works reveal an emotional and spiritual connection with our environment and explore themes of care, hope and responsibility.