Earth's Canvas 2024 reflections

I am proud to have been one of the convenors of this innovative event. The high level of joy, excitement, shared purpose and new connections surpassed that of any meeting I have attended at Burlington House either with GSL or PESGB over my 40+ year career as a Fellow. For example, there were oohhs and aahhs as artwork was revealed by Calum Wallis - not common during scientific presentations. I presented the workflow behind the creation of The Song of the Ice and Lida presented our new book A Suitable Stone launched just the week before.
 
Some day 1 participants (Lucy Williams)
 
I was particularly proud to be curator, roadie, sound engineer and compere for the innovative evening concert in the iconic and acoustically favourable setting of the iconic Upper Library which had a warm atmosphere and performances of high quality.
 
Setting up in the Upper Library (Andrea Granitzio)
 
Well done to the other convenors Lucy Williams, Emma Jude, Patrick Corbett and Peter Dolan - and thanks to the Geological Society team for their partnership in bringing this to life.
 
Some reactions: 
  • ‘I've been waiting 30 years for this event’ Ruth Siddall
  • ‘I was impressed by the range and quality of artists … and how much they managed to convey in the short 15mins slots … a lovely atmosphere … a warm welcoming one which can be difficult sometimes with a whole new group of people … it is a very great thing  … to be the architect of enabling these new connections' Julie Brook
  • ‘ … utterly wonderful …landmark in every sense of the word … such joy with so many kindred spirits’. Lida Lopez Cardoso Kindersley
  • ‘… hugely inspiring … it was great to explore the interfaces between creativity and science, alongside the challenges in funding, and an emotionally charged discussion of the measurement of “impact” … congratulations to the inspired convenors and their tenacity in facing all kinds of challenges in bringing this event to fruition. Neil Frewin
  • … a really remarkable gathering of creative people discussing earth science and landscapes through music, writing, and visual art … will keep me inspired' Liz Hide
  • ‘Thanks to the Geological Society for hosting such a nourishing event; Earth’s Canvas. It was an honour to present in such esteemed company.’ Michael Begg
  • 'Very well organised and with amazing contribution both from scientific and musical sides. I felt at home. It is not very common to be part of such interdisciplinary events ….What a great and inspiring interdisciplinary evening with poets, musicians, composers and earth scientists!' Andrea Grantzio
  • '…an amazing conference and … evening concert …it was an honour to be part of such a varied and excellent programme …Matilda's music was a haunting close to the concert, taking us on mountain paths from the valleys to the peaks.' Victoria Field
  • ‘I feel privileged to have been there to share work and music with you … taken and immersed by everyone’s work and ideas… so inspiring and I can’t wait to do more … I have learnt so much in such a short space of time … that heartfelt intimate  gig - a quiet respectful space inside the heart of the busy, exciting city !’ Matilda Brown

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