The Forest is our Supermarket

Summer 2008, William Patten Primary School, Stoke Newington, London

The title is inspired from work done by ‘survival international’ to support indigenous peoples. In keeping with RIVA’s core beliefs, the residency we were offering had an environmental theme. RIVA explored the contrast between an indigenous personʼs experience of the land and our own societyʼs experience of land.

The children looked at art that uses natural forms, symbols and art that encourages contemplation. One of the preparatory workshops took place in Highgate Woods, giving the children an insight into the richness of a woodland’s wildlife. They also heard stories of indigenous life in a Sami tent.

An important aim was that the children would locate the part in themselves that is unique and can be a source of individual creativity.

Thus we hoped the children would gain greater independence and also awareness of the world they live in.

Consequently the project was experienced both individually and collectively.