elizabethnorwoodresearch

How can traditions and heritage help us imagine a more sustainable future?

My research explores the relationship between people, culture and the environment in Cornwall, particularly in communities shaped by mining. As Cornwall experiences a new wave of interest in mining for critical minerals such as lithium, I’m interested in what we can learn from the stories, traditions, celebrations and creative practices that have connected people to the landscape for generations, and continue to shape how people understand, care for and belong to the places they live.

Working with local communities, artists and heritage organisations, I use creative methods such as workshops, conversations and observation to explore how cultural practices can help strengthen connections between people and place. Rather than studying communities from the outside, the research aims to create opportunities for people to share experiences, knowledge and ideas together.

Ultimately, the project asks how local culture and creativity can help communities respond to changing landscapes with new lithium mines opening, support a stronger sense connection with the land, and contribute to more sustainable futures for Cornwall and beyond.

This website shares updates from the research, documents creative projects and events, and provides opportunities for people to get involved or get in touch.