Researchers examine how people relate to their environment in exciting collaboration

Researchers from Falmouth University and the University of Exeter are working together on ‘Perspective Shifts’, a collaborative project that comes as part of the FX Creative Exchange programme. Bringing together a range of researchers and ideas, the project is led by Phyllida Bluemel, Lecturer for Illustration BA(Hons) and University of Exeter Research Fellow, Dr Emmylou Rahtz, and sees art and science unite.  

The pair are currently examining how people perceive the world and their place within it, exploring how this affects their connection to the environment. Combining a collection of voices, expertise and knowledge from both universities, this a truly collaborative event that celebrates creativity and thought.  

Taking place between April and July, the conversations will be poetically documented into a co-produced publication, illustrated by Phyllida, to provoke readers into challenging themselves with scaled perspectives, and encouraging them to experience awe and connection.  

Speaking on the project, Emmylou said: “When Phyllida and I first met up, our conversation developed in an exciting way. New ideas bubbled as we found parallels and new frames of reference for our existing interests.  

“I’m delighted that we’ve been awarded the funding to take the conversation further and expand it through speaking with other people.” 

Phyllida added: “I’m really looking forward to bringing other researchers into our discussions and being able to talk about and work with ideas that don’t fit neatly into any of the typical disciplinary boxes. 

“Emmylou and I found there are so many overlaps in our thinking and have many more questions left to answer.”