About this Event
Are you ready to discover and share your voice for local waters?
In this creative arts workshop, ocean artists Viola Madau and Jamie Wardrop will guide you on an underwater journey through local waters, exploring your views and values through evocative imagery and storytelling activities.
There will be a special screening of the new short animated film Dùthchas which blends science, art, Gaelic folklore and community action to inspire change within Scottish seas. This will be led by none other than the film-maker herself, Viola Madau, who will open up an engaging reflective session.
In partnership with the Trust, the artists will offer the chance for you to connect meaningfully with your local Marine Protected Areas as well as other local spots important to marine wildlife. Through creative mark-making we'll empower you to express your feelings on how local Marine Protected Areas, and your wider marine region, should be used. We'll celebrate the power that creative arts practices have in championing ocean health at a policy level.
This event will culminate in the creation of a collaborative sculpture which will be shared with marine decision-makers, reflecting community values during this pivotal opportunity to make waves of change for Scotland's seas.
We can't wait to support you in sharing your views through a joyful artistic exploration of local waters!
Who's this event for?
This event is for anyone living in the wider Argyll and the Isles region who cares about their local waters. Whether you enjoy waters recreationally e.g. as a wild swimmer, kayaker, or snorkeller. Whether you work at sea e.g. as a skipper, fisher or tourism provider. Whether you already have a vested interest in ocean health as a community conservationist or have never dipped your toe in these waters. This event will be a memorable and meaningful way to make a difference for Scotland's seas.
About the organisers
In 2024, both Viola Madau and Jamie Wardrop took part in the Argyll Hope Spot artists residency, using the North Argyll snorkel trail which was developed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust in partnership with the Argyll and Isles Tourism Cooperative, with vital support from local groups such as the Argyll Hope Spot. The Trust have been delighted to work with this group of artists since, connecting people in powerful ways to local waters around Argyll and the Isles.
Viola Madau is a passionate animator artist with her work deeply rooted in a love for the sea. Viola says:
"Snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving in Argyll have been a true awakening, fueling both my art and my relationship with the natural world. These two passions have become intertwined, each nurturing the other. The more I create – writing and making art inspired by my underwater observations – the deeper my love for these marine habitats grows."
Jamie Wardrop is a visual and digital artist who's work explores how digital art can enhance and transform audience experiences. His artistic practice is driven by a passion for creating communal experiences that spark dialogue and foster a deeper connection with the natural world. Increasingly, Jamie’s work focuses on environmental and ecological themes, with Jamie's work connecting people powerfully with marine life around Argyll and the Isles.
This event has been made possible by the Scottish Wildlife Trust's Sea the Connection project, funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, which aims to reduce barriers to participation in marine decision-making by building ocean literacy. The Trust believes that inclusive, community-led marine decision-making leads to more sustainable decisions for Scotland's seas.
Things to know
Please note that ticket numbers are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment.
Refreshments will be provided, please advise us of any dietary requirements in advance when you book your ticket.
We aim to make our events fully accessible, when you book your ticket please advise us of any support you may require to take part and we can discuss this further with you.
Questions?
For any questions or feedback you may have, please contact Viola Madau ([email protected]).
We can't wait to sea you there!
Photo Credits:
- Image 1 ©Emma Baker and Rosie Cunningham
- Image 2 ©AlexanderMustard/2020VISION
Event venue & nearby stays
The Rockfield Centre, Rockfield Brae, Oban, United Kingdom
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