Wokingham Borough residents are invited to take part in a vibrant and diverse series of free arts and cultural activities that foster a deeper connection with the natural world and raise awareness about the climate emergency.
For the first time, the council is partnering with Bath Spa University, House of Imagination and Grant Associates to bring the award-winning Forest of Imagination (‘FOI’) to the borough.
This unique arts project, originated in Bath in 2014, inspires people to explore environmental issues through creativity and artistic expression.
Running until May, Wokingham Borough’s Forest of Imagination 2025 (‘FOI Wokingham’) is bringing a celebration of nature-themed art and cultural experiences to people of all ages, and from all walks of life.
The project is fully funded by a grant from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
During March, a wide ranging array of activities will take place across the borough, offering something for everyone in the community.
Residents are encouraged to sign up online to secure their spot for these exciting events.
Activities include spoken word performances, immersive story worlds, ecological storytelling and drawing sessions with well-known illustrators. Nature-inspired activities, such as walking workshops and architectural creations will also be featured.
Kicking these off will be engaging sessions led by Toby Thompson, an award-winning poet, musician and global storyteller, from Thursday, March 6, until Sunday, March 9. Entitled ‘Dear Universe’, this unique performance combines piano music, poetry and personal voice recordings sent to the Universe to explore themes of solitude, love and our place in the cosmos.
For local businesses, there will be an imaginative, interactive session to enhance branding and address common challenges through engaging activities inspired by nature. The session will also offer workplace benefits including team building and foster a culture of innovation among staff.
As part of the FOI Wokingham programme, pupils in 14 primary, secondary and special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) schools across the borough are participating in creative workshops led by the FOI artists.
These workshops offer children and young people the opportunity to explore environmental issues through a wide range of creative media. Teachers are also benefitting by gaining the skills and resources needed to incorporate biodiversity and climate-focused activities into their teaching.
The council has recruited seven artists in Berkshire, including creative students from the University of Reading to support the project. These artists have been provided with professional training by one of the partners, House of Imagination, to deliver engaging activities for local schools and community groups.
Earlier, members of local community organisations were also invited to a workshop, where they contributed to the design and making of semi-permanent art installations that reflect the beauty of nature and inspire collective actions about climate change.
FOI Wokingham will culminate in a celebratory four-day showcase at Dinton Pastures Country Park, the borough’s flagship park, from May 22 until May 25..
The showcase will feature new sensory installations co-created by professional artists and schools, incorporating ideas from local community groups. There will also be participatory activities, performances and digital experiences for visitors to enjoy and deepen their connections to nature.
Cllr Prue Bray, deputy leader and executive member for children’s services, said: “We’re thrilled to host the Forest of Imagination, marking its first edition outside its original location.
“The project brings the borough together through arts, culture and education, and provides our children and young people with whole new experiences to learn about the environment.”
Cllr Mark Ashwell, executive member for economic development, sport, leisure and the arts, said: “Wokingham Borough’s Forest of Imagination will elevate our profile in the arts and culture space. It not only showcases our commitment to nurturing creativity but also enhances our position as a vibrant cultural hub, both regionally and nationally.”
Dr Penny Hay, professor of imagination at Bath Spa University, added: “We’re delighted to be working with so many schools and cultural organisations across the borough, bringing Forest of Imagination to Wokingham borough as our first event outside Bath.
“Forest of Imagination invites everyone to have a conversation about the importance of nature, imagination and the arts in all our lives.”
FOI Wokingham has received £516,817 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and places, supporting local business, and people and skills.
