This year’s festival THIS LAND will screen two films by Turner prize nominated artist Rory Pligrim. RAFTS and The Undercurrent explore the global issue of climate change and it’s more personal effects on people’s lives.

Centred on emancipatory concerns, Pilgrim aims to challenge the nature of how we come together, speak, listen and strive for social change through sharing and voicing personal experience. Strongly influenced by the origins of activism, feminist and socially engaged art, Pilgrim works with others through different methods of dialogue, collaboration and workshops.

In an age of increasing technological interaction, Rory is highlighting connections between activism, spirituality, music and how we form community locally and globally at b-side as a buzzing hub of local talent.

The first instalment in Pilgrim’s deep dive into how the climate crisis relates to support structures in our everyday lives is The Undercurrent. This follows activists exploring how climate change interconnects with other aspects of their lives including family, difficulties with religion, friendship, fighting for gender equality and the essential need of a home. In these uncertain times globally, The Undercurrent questions what makes us feel like we belong somewhere – it is a home, a country or each other? Following this is RAFTS the second chapter of Pilgrim’s work featuring a concert broadcast that interweaves stories, poetry and reflections around a seven-song oratorio. Using tools of prophecy, reflection and creativity, the concert takes us on a journey that contemplates which ‘rafts’ could be needed to navigate the future in times of change and uncertainty. The third chapter will be unveiled at b-side in 2024.

Download full press release below.