The Man Who Planted Trees’ text is the starting point for Hebden Bridge Arts' environmentally-themed community project as part of Culturedale. The project includes a reimagining of Giono’s short story for the stage, through community performances, and a series of exhibitions, workshops and events.  Links to explore the story are on Hebden Bridge Arts' website linked below.

Giono’s tale follows a man’s encounter with the mysterious solitary shepherd, Elzéard Bouffier, who he discovers has dedicated his life to planting trees to revive a devastated valley. The tale tracks their multiple encounters over the years, weaving a narrative of hope, determination and incredible ecological revival.

Inspired by this, Hebden Bridge Arts are hosting a set of exhibitions centred around the themes of nature, legacy, rebirth and power of the individual. This first Hebden Bridge exhibition will be hosted in the Hebden Bridge Town Hall Foyer & Cafe.

Submissions are now open for these exhibitions, and they encourage artwork considering responses to the climate emergency. Your interpretations may be literal, follow a key thread of the narrative or explore a chosen theme. Your work may be a new piece, inspired by the project, or something you have made recently that you believe fits one or more of the themes.

Learn more on their website below.

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