WEEKEND BETWEEN THE MEADOW AND THE FOREST
WE HELPED ORGANIZE THE FOREST SYMPOSIUM IN THE ORLICKÉ MOUNTAINS!
In July, our volunteers took part in the sixth annual interdisciplinary forest symposium “Společenství trávy,” which took place on a forest and meadow site in the Orlické Mountains. The event brought together art, ecology, education, and the topic of pastoralism, offering several days of lectures, workshops, group gatherings, and outdoor activities.
Much of the volunteers’ assistance was directed toward the forest kitchen. The volunteers helped prepare meals and wash dishes, and they made sure to refill the hand-washing stations near the restrooms. One of them helped with the children’s forest group, and another even began assisting with preparations two days before the event’s official start.
Thanks to their help, the organizing team had more time to focus on the program and the participants. When the volunteers had a moment to spare, they had the opportunity to explore the program and experience the unique blend of art and connection with nature and the landscape.
According to the organizers, the volunteers’ assistance throughout the symposium was a significant help, and their dedication was admirable.
We thank the wonderfully coordinated team of volunteers for the time and energy they devoted to the event, and the organizers for their cooperation and care during the volunteers’ stay.
Woods is a vibrant community of people from the fields of art, ecology, permaculture, and education, which has been creating the Are association (are-events.org) since 2019. On their own 2.8-hectare forest and meadow land, they combine landscape care with contemporary art and environmental theory.
With respect for the landscape and its inhabitants, they are dedicated to sustainable agriculture, permaculture, raising a small herd of goats and sheep, and creating a place where people and non-human beings can meet. Every year, they organize a forest symposium, residential programs, and workshops that combine ecology, art, and interspecies solidarity.
They are currently working on an international project called Pastoral Twilight, which explores the possibilities of a shared culture and education for people, animals, plants, and fungi.