B-side has received funding from Natural England for an arts project which aims to connect local residents with Nature and their environment.

For many people enjoying being out in Nature and experiencing the natural environment is an important part of their well-being, the benefits of being outdoors have been proven to help our mental and physical health. Winter weather and short daylight hours can make this difficult for many people and can lead to feelings of isolation – we want to celebrate the dark hours of Winter and over the next few months, before the clocks go forward, b-side will be programming events that encourage local residents to embrace and enjoy the dark hours of Winter.

It all kicks off in February with a call out for photographs of Portland in the dark hours – dawn, dusk or night-time shots of Portland Nature, landscapes or buildings from the tiniest moth to the largest brightest Moon. During the month of February and March b-side will showcase residents dark time photographs in the window of their project space Outpost, which is located in Fortuneswell on Portland.

 Another fantastic part of this project is a creative bursary opportunity – Portland photographer James Buckley will be working alongside the photographer Richard Tomlinson to document and record all the programme’s activities. Jame’s will produce a portfolio of photographs as well as receiving invaluable advice and guidance from Richard as part of the bursary mentorship.

Photo Credit: Portland Bill at Night contributed by Portland resident Daniel Sands