Lantern Journeys
Lantern Journeys, Silverburn Park, Fife
A project with mental health charity, Fife Employment Access Trust, aimed at using creativity to foster connections within the community. The project promoted engagement with nature, heritage and each other, amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Working outdoors and adhering to social distancing rules, I worked with a dedicated team of volunteers to prepare 350 packs of materials, which were subsequently distributed within the community. Through online workshops and creating instructional videos, I remotely engaged with 200 households and 150 school children to create a series of light installations, within the grounds of a 19th century flax mill. The lantern designs were inspired by the shape of the flax flowers and seed pods, thereby connecting with the industrial heritage of the site.
Participants were encouraged to personalise their lanterns with uplifting messages, reflecting their experiences during the pandemic and their hopes for the future. Due to reoccurring Covid restrictions, a public event wan’t possible, prompting us to showcase the collective achievement by commissioning a film of the installations.
Photography © James Armandary Photography & © Hannah Ayre