On a grim Saturday night in January, a crowd of unwitting climbers and friends bravely forwent the pub and turned out for High in the Wide Lands, the first in a series of events exploring landscape in art and words, in support of the Mountain Heritage Trust. We hoped for a jovial, accessible evening – some beauty, some wit, a reasonable quantity of beer and the opportunity to share some of the brilliant creativity that interprets and records mountain culture.

Seven artists contributed work including photography from Alex Ekins, a time-lapse video by Dan Arkle, etching by Neil Woodhall, and an inspired installation from Al Williams, and five speakers read from their biography, poetry and ‘narrative comedy’. Elite adventure athlete and artist Heather Dawe spoke about her process of adventure writing, nationally renowned poet Helen Mort read new work on historic women mountaineers, and the infamous climbing commentator Niall Grimes provided late night story telling.

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We were completely stunned by the turnout, listening skills and donations on the night. We raised a modest £241.15 for the MHT, but the main purpose was to enjoy the ‘artistic bent’ that is still rife in climbing and hill communities. We hope everyone went away entertained and a little inspired. The next event is the 7th of June, we are looking for art and artefacts – found, inherited or made, that could be curated to explore our experience of time in landscape. Please do get in touch.

Many Thanks to all the artists and speakers, Hagglers Corner and everyone that came down.

MHT would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who took part in the event and to those who supported through their interest and attendance and for the generosity of your donations – the money will contribute to our invaluable work.