THINGS ARE LOOKING UP

We are blessed with having both a Biosphere and Dark Sky Park, both internationally recognised designations, and both addressing very different experiences. Art and in particular environmental art - often has a habit of making unexpected things happen in our landscape - the Rosnes Benches project is a good example. The benches force people to experience the Galloway Forest Park not just from 1.5m off the ground looking horizontally but from 10cm off the ground looking vertically, with smells, sounds and emotions all mixed in. Once you are lying on one of the 30 benches in 12 locations you begin see the landscape from a different perspective and by looking at the sky you become more aware of the environment that surrounds you.

There are a number of environmental events to engage with over the next month. The new Dark Sky Rangers will be appearing at the Wigtown Book Festival and two other arts based events, EAFS 2015 and Sanctuary 2015, also involve new audiences experiencing the Biosphere and Dark Sky Park. Stop, listen, smell and dwell in Scotland’s hidden corner.

As well as Galloway Forest Park all three events and are delighted to have become proud supporters of the Biosphere by signing the Biosphere Charter and you can join too. Things are looking up!

Best wishes
Keith Muir
Head of Tourism, Recreation & Communications,
Galloway District, Forestry Commission Scotland.