A major new Devon-wide arts festival celebrating trees, creativity and wellbeing is bringing together artists, scientists, farmers and communities across the county. “If Trees Could Talk Devon” is a 10-week programme of exhibitions, public art, workshops, talks and community events inspired by an international art biennale in the Philippines and rooted in Devon’s own landscapes and ecosystems. Among those taking part are renowned artist Andrew Carnie, former Leader of the first-ever London Borough of Culture, Clare Coghill, and multiple Devon members of the Arborealists Fine Art Collective.
Over 70 people and organisations have contributed to creating quite a distinctive line-up. It represents the start of something, not the closing of doors. (We continue to take listings for the digital programme here. Enriching the landscape will be a good thing! ) We are beginning to plan and talk with potential partners and funders about a year round programme that could leads us toward the 2028 Festival with more community co-creations to highlight.
We are particularly excited by our ‘Talks Across Borders” programme at Ashburton Arts Centre - a congregation point for our creative community
In this event in that series, professional artists will respond to the questions: "What are the roles that trees play in artists' practice? Why Trees? How do artists interpret the provocation, "If Trees Could Talk"?"
Currently featuring Joe Webster, Gordon Field, Jacqueline Wedlake Hatton and Ann Blockley.
Printed ‘showcase’ programmes are available at Crediton Arts Centre, The Phoenix Arts Centre and Ashburton Arts Centre, Barnstaple Library, The Burton at Bideford, and various places “#inthewild” aroound Devon. It is downloadable or can be ordered for delivery by post at for a small contribution. You can also browse and book the events HERE. Communities across Devon are invited to contribute further events for a small administrative fee.