Nature walks by locals • Windows of Opportunity

Nature is not static.

Inspired by the nature that is always changing and seeing how that applies to the society as well, this project is to remind us all that about it’s presence. It is also a method that shows and inspires how to approach nature with creative tools and this enabled by stories and experiences gathered over generations. The exploration of that topic came from the curiosity and of a fact that I’ve been growing up and living so close to nature all my life and from knowing that being in nature have many positive health effects for both, body and soul. Nature connected experiences also have an important social significance.

This project evolved from an experience of nature to an interactive method based on walks, engaging local elderly people to be nature guides for people that are plant blind. It’s intention is to connect people and create space for social, cultural and nature interaction, as well as exchange knowledge between different generations during guided walk. The method evokes feeling and sensing nature assisted by dedicated interactive cards as trigger material used during the walk. It also opens up possibilities for the older generations to be co-guides and tell their narratives and stories based on reminiscence, knowledge and experience. This enables new generations to experience local nature in a curiosity driven way. The purpose of the walks in nature and the space for reflection is to encourage a personal understanding of nature’s presence, impact and meaning to humans in the modern society and to bridge the gap inbetween.