GUNOWDER PARK FIELD STATION - ESSEX

15-22-29 JULY 2007

The term ecovention describes an artist-initiated project that employs an inventive strategy to intervene in or transform a local ecology. Ecoventions usually involve collaborations between artists, community members and local specialists such as ecologists, botanists, landscape architects or urban planners.

This day has been of particular interest to artists wishing to develop their ecological-art practice and ecologists interested in working with artists to raise awareness of ecological issues. The day has been led by American artist Brandon Ballengée , with urban ecologist Dusty Gedge and artist and photographer David Cottridge .

More than many environmental artists, the work of Brandon Ballengée bridges the gap between research biology and art. He combines a fascination with fish and amphibians with the techniques of commercial art photography.  In 1996 Ballengée began collaborating with scientists to create hybrid environmental art/ ecological research projects which have been exhibited internationally. Ballengée's “eco-actions” directly involve members of the public in these research projects through performative, collaborative fieldtrips.

During 2007 and 2008, Ballengée is leading a UK study into declining amphibian species, through participatory lab and field-based research investigations, working with the public as well as collaborating scientists. The project is organised by The Arts Catalyst and enabled by residencies at Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Gunpowder Park, and Space Studios, London.

Urban ecologist Dusty Gedge advises a number of government bodies, NGOs, architects, landscape architects and the green roof industry.  He was previously a professional street entertainer, circus performer and actor, but always keeping his interest in nature.

David Cottridge is a wildlife photographer and artist. Widely regarded as Britain's top bird photographer, he is also one of the UK's most popular birding lecturers.   David has been photographing Gunpowder Park throughout the redevelopment of the site and, in collaboration with artist David Chapman , has created HARK 1 and HARK 2, multimedia projects inspired by the park's landscape and soundscape.

Eco-Action Fieldtrips for all ages

This study day is followed on consecutive Sundays by “eco-action” public fieldtrips, suitable for people of all ages, particularly family groups:

- Sunday 22 July 2007, 1 – 4.30 pm

AMPHIBIANS STUDY FIELDTRIP led by Brandon Ballengée

- Sunday 29 July 2007, 1 – 4.30 pm

INSECT STUDY FIELDTRIP led by Brandon Ballengée

The events take place at Gunpowder Park, 90 hectares of new country park for the benefit of people, wildlife and the arts.  Located at the top of Greater London within the Lee Valley Regional Park, Gunpowder Park is the largest open space in the region for arts and the environment.

www.artscatalyst.org/projects/global/ballengee.html