“Writing on my hand”
Sometimes I make notes of things to remember on my left hand, and then go up to receive communion…
Work
Four Haiku and One
redefining pink –
bursting magnolia buds
stretch their baby fists
“In a car park a tanka”
Ho hum.
“Made for your hand”
Pebblebed Heaths lie inland of Budleigh, and the beach is formed of pebbles, beautifully smooth.
“Learning to float”
I learned to float when I was 53, off the beach at Budleigh Salterton, Devon.
“18”
Poem published by Wildfire Words, with audio recording of my reading.
“Entwined”
Terza rima sonnet inspired by walks through the temperate rainforests of Lustleigh Cleave, Dartmoor, and Isaac Newton.
“Exploring Prayer”, a series
For three years I wrote a series of articles for Exeter Cathedral, introducing contemplative prayer as a way deepening our relationship with God.
The Depth and Breadth of Kith and Kin
What if we were to listen to our home with the ears of our heart, with the proprioception of our soul? To open ourselves up to a relationship with a particular place.
St Loye, Eloy, Éloy, Éloi, Loy, Loys, Lewis, Elius, Eligius, Eligious, Eligio or Eligiusz.
St Loye is said to have reshod a reluctant horse by cutting off its leg, shodding it, then miraculously reattaching it. He was born in 588 in Limoges, but what is his connection with Exeter?
“How do I like thee? Let me count the ways”
Inspired by Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Facebook. Gotta love the AI image generator’s attempt to produce a “cloud of thumbs up emojis”. It really can’t do hands… or faces.
“Highways agency”
Prompted by the variable messages overhead as I drove home down the M5.
“Think chair” poetry reading
A reading of “Think chair” and other poems more or less related to items of furniture
“Think chair” for “Get On Board 39”
When I responded to an invitation to ‘think chair’, Studio 36 published it.
“Think chair”
Veronica Gosling sent out an invitation to ‘think chair’, so I wrote a poem.
“Dramatised Mark” in Exeter Cathedral
A dramatised reading of of the Gospel according to St Mark created by Professor Chris Bryan and directed by David Gunn-Johnson.
“Compline: A celebration of Ascension” in St Olave’s Church
Performance of “On the Holy Mountain” by Andrew Wilson and other vocal and instrumental music, concluding with the ancient close-of-the-day service of Compline. Hosted by Margaret Aagesen Hughes (Soprano) and Clare Bryden (Alto).
Green Words
Two haiku, one responding to the news of record September average global temperatures, and one celebrating a bit of biodiversity that is often overlooked.
“Hope springs eternal”
In 2010 I wrote a series of four haiku spanning seven-year intervals in response to Deepwater Horizon: 1996, 2003, 2010, 2017. Now it’s 2023, maybe an update that ignites the will to keep plugging on would be helpful…
“#NoticingNature”
10 October is World Mental Health Day. During the preceding two weeks I practised Noticing Nature from the Greater Good in Action website.
National Poetry Day
Writing haiku, inspired by the natural world around (and perhaps inside) Exeter Cathedral.
Good Money Week: how to set up a social enterprise
Clare Bryden. Good Money Week: how to set up a social enterprise, Church Times, 29 September 2023.
Churches can express their faith and respond to community needs through social enterprises. Clare Bryden explains how to set one up
“Living the questions” again in 2023/24
Teaching on the Medical Humanities Special Studies Unit at Exeter Medical School, introducing fourth year students to conceptual and environmental art; looking at meaning-making and how we turn ideas into art; making art.
“2x2xAI”
Artificial imagination of two trees in the style of
“Compline: A contemplative journey through Lent” in St Olave’s Church
The ancient close-of-the-day service of Compline, with plainchant and polyphony. Hosted by Margaret Aagesen Hughes (Soprano) and Clare Bryden (Alto). Featuring musicians Andrew Maries (Oboe), Sophie Brewer (Flute), Catherine Bradley (Cello), John Draisey (Keyboard) and the music of Andrew Wilson.
Absorbed in making
“Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful” – William Morris
Knit one Perl one
Knitting is coding. Input, operation, output, storage.
Tax for good: Zacchaeus as social reformer
Clare Bryden. Tax for good: Zacchaeus as social reformer. Church Times, 30 September 2022.
Clare Bryden looks at how taxation can be used to make a fairer society
“Der Luftschiffer” by Karoline von Günderrode
I have wrested myself free from earthly things, / recognized the writings of the stars above
“Der Panther” by Rainer Maria Rilke
To him it is as though there were a thousand bars / and behind a thousand bars no world.
“Wandrers Nachtlied” by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
In all the treetops / you sense / barely a breath
“Osterspaziergang” by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Everyone is gladly sunning themselves today. / They are celebrating the resurrection of the Lord, / because they are themselves arisen:
“Compline: A contemplative journey through Lent” in St Olave’s Church
The ancient close-of-the-day service of Compline, with plainchant and polyphony. Hosted by Margaret Aagesen Hughes (Soprano) and Clare Bryden (Alto). Featuring the music of Barber, Bach and Pergolesi, and musicians Ruth Molins (Flute), Emma Welton (Violin), John Draisey (organ).
Five books that have formed me
I have a great debt of gratitude to Thomas Hardy, Margaret Craven, Rainer Maria Rilke, the author of the Cloud of Unknowing, Richard Powers, and many others.
“Climate Blocks” for “Get On Board 16”
Studio 36 has a wonderful noticeboard out front, hosting a continually changing series of shows of work by local artists. For Board 16 the wider Studio 36 community was invited to submit work relating to climate change.
“1×1”
Studies of colour, form and pattern that are below, around and above me.
Japanese Dogwood
When I moved to Exeter, one of the first things I did was to plant a tree. This year it’s gone ‘berserk’ and many of my neighbours have remarked on it… Which has led me to take more notice of it too.
“Paper Promises” for “Moths to a Flame”
I hope that at COP26 world leaders will hammer out a deal that will save our life support system. I hope that out of the darkness of despair, we can extend our wings and find our way to the light.
Good money after bad
Clare Bryden. Good money after bad. Church Times, 1 October 2021.
Clare Bryden suggests ten ways to use personal finance for a better world
Prayer installations
As part of starting a new blog devoted to prayer and spiritual life, I have moved over the material on related installations.
Prayer and Bible reading groups
As part of starting a new blog devoted to prayer and spiritual life, I have moved over the material on related workshops and group work.
Performance in a worship context
As part of starting a new blog devoted to prayer and spiritual life, I have moved over the material on related performance.
“Elsewhere” in a Studio 36 publication
“Elsewhere”, my piece of St Loy Cornwall washed up in St Loyes Exeter, has found a small niche as part of Studio 36’s second COVID publication.
“Live the questions now” 2020/21
Teaching on the Medical Humanities Special Studies Unit at Exeter Medical School, introducing fourth year students to conceptual and environmental art, looking at meaning-making and how we turn ideas into art, making art.
#DIYLent #poetry #light #prayer
In this year of quarantine, I have been observing a DIY Lent. I thought it would be wonderful to get together (via Zoom of course) with one or two different friends each week. Both of us bring a poem, or piece of poetic prose, or art, or music to share and reflect on.
Come dancing
I went on an expedition today, all the way to Middlemoor roundabout, for a picnic lunch amidst the trees and daffodils.
What can I do about the Climate Emergency? Part 9
One of a series of articles for Exeter Cathedral’s monthly news. It’s the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi, and I’m looking at the emotive issue of food.
Working title: “The application of weather forecasting techniques to health forecasting”
In a past working life I conducted a thought experiment, looking at the different aspects of numerical weather prediction and weather forecasting at the Met Office, and asking whether these techniques might have an analogue in health forecasting. At the time, I thought there might be a paper in it. It never came to be written, so this is how I am keeping the idea alive.
The Climate Emergency and #BlackLivesMatter
This was intended to be the last in my series of articles for Exeter Cathedral’s monthly News about what we can do about the Climate Emergency. White people say we want to be an ally to Black people. But are we ready for sacrifice?
What can I do about the Climate Emergency? Part 8
One of a series of articles for Exeter Cathedral’s monthly news. Coronavirus has given us an opportunity to rethink how much and how we travel. We need to use it; we only have 6 months and counting to ‘save the planet’.
Why do I read?
To be entertained by a cracking yarn. To comfort me in illness or sadness. To experience the thrill of a new beginning, and the potential that I hold in my hand for unfurling life or explosive change.
“Live the questions now” 2019/20
Teaching on the Medical Humanities Special Studies Unit at Exeter Medical School, introducing fourth year students to conceptual and environmental art, looking at meaning-making and how we turn ideas into art, making art.
Experimenting for “Moths to a Flame”
The amazingly creative Chloe Uden from Art and Energy has made oak gall ink, so I attempted watercolour for the first time, and a Great Oak Beauty moth.
Fracted / Emerging
#ice #crystals #fractals #window #sky #monastery #gate #bars #tunnel #amphitheatre #grass #bowl #blue #green #light #dark #2×2 #patterns
What can I do about the Climate Emergency? Part 7
Part of a series of articles for Exeter Cathedral’s monthly News. Coronavirus has changed much, but it is an opportunity to reframe what we think of as ‘normal’.
If you can’t make art, make a bug hotel
I haven’t been getting round to making art recently. Which isn’t to say I haven’t been creative.
Nodding donkeys
The nodding donkey is a grotesque distortion of circular natural seasonal fecundity into linear exploitative extraction. The donkeys are nodding to capitalism’s exponential growth message, always looking down even when their head is high, never looking up to reality or the future.
What can I do about the Climate Emergency? Parts 5&6
One of a series of articles for Exeter Cathedral’s monthly News. We have 10 months and counting now to ‘save the planet’, so I suggest we increase the pressure on business, and put our money where our heart is.
“2×2”
Studies of form and pattern, inside and out, natural and artifical, found and artefact.
West Barok Singers & Players
A concert of Handel “Dixit Dominus” and other baroque gems, held in the Music Room at Powderham Castle.
“Minecraft Climate Quest” at the ExIST STEAMM Show
This was an opportunity for me to pilot my latest work, with some interesting outcomes and lessons!!
What can I do about the Climate Emergency? Parts 3&4
One of a series of articles for Exeter Cathedral’s monthly News. We have 13 months to ‘save the planet’. This month’s suggestions are about saving energy in the home and putting pressure on the Government.
What can I do about the Climate Emergency? Parts 1&2
The first in a series of articles I’m writing for Exeter Cathedral’s monthly News, on the changes we can make in our own lives, and how we can encourage necessary structural changes. This time: calculating your environmental footprint, and taking a Sabbath.
“The lady’s not for Turnip” by Victoria Cindy Feet
My fourth and absolutely my last attempt for Turnip Prize glory. Although you never know. After all, the Tories shouldn’t have a monopoly on U-turns, flip-flops, deceiving the voters, or otherwise go against their word.
Time and Tide wait…
This weekend was NASA Space Apps Challenge 2019, and I joined the Time and Tide team to play with slow visualisations of rising sea levels, and make a patchwork of contours.
What do we want? Climate injustice!
When do we want it? World without end!
For what are we shouting? With our voices? And with our actions that speak louder than words?
“Climate Questing in Minecraft”
In which the UK Climate Projections 2018 meet Minecraft and “The Warlock of Firetop Mountain”.
China clay in your hand
Many years ago I saw a TV segment exploring a china clay pit, and was struck by the infinite landscape and colours. I’d been wanting to see one with my own eyes ever since, and have finally had the chance.
“Live the questions now” at the Wellcome Centre, Exeter
I teach a Medical Humanities unit to fourth year students at Exeter Medical School, using conceptual art as a way in. I arranged this exhibition of the work produced by the 2018/19 cohort.
Breaking SAD – Springwatch
Things feel bad. Spring comes, the days get longer and the weather improves. But things still feel bad. So the feeling of badness is not just because it’s winter. The feeling of badness is yours.
Migration can kill
Since my wander around St Loyes with Rosie King, I’ve been continuing to think about migration patterns. The daily migration of workers on Sowton Industrial Estate became particular obvious to me during “The Birds of Sowton Industrial Estate” as it emptied of cars at the end of the working day. How do we make this migration pattern less harmful? How can we persuade people out of their cars and onto their bikes/feet?
“Listening to Silent Spring” at Mikrofest
Mikrofest was a free mini festival to launch Kaleider’s new home. I took the opportunity to trial an installation of “Listening to Silent Spring” in a couple of bird boxes in the building.
“Compline: A contemplative journey through Lent” in St Martin’s Church
The ancient close-of-the-day service of Compline, with plainchant and polyphony. Hosted by Margaret Aagesen Hughes (Soprano) and Clare Bryden (Alto). Featuring the music of Bach, Barber and Saint-Saëns, and musicians Ruth Molins, Sophie Brewer (Flute), Emma Welton (Violin), Catherine Bradley (Cello).
Catching the wind
Mucknell Abbey, Worcestershire, 10 March 2011 – The anticyclonic frost and cold of the beginning of March has become cyclonic bluster and low cloud. I take advantage of the force 5-ish sou’westerlies, and reach for my kite.
“Angel of the SW”
Set on a high point within Ludwell Valley Park, Exeter, the Angel’s weathered steel reflects the rust-red warmth of the local stone. It serves as a focus and an anchor, helping to tether us and give us a sense of place in an ephemeral and rapidly changing world.
“Looking slant” for Science and Belief blog
Ruth Bancewicz of the Faraday Institute asked me to write a piece for the blog “Science and Belief – A blog about the positive interactions between science and faith”. I finally took the opportunity to write up my reflections about “Green|Blue” more fully.
“Live the questions now: control, connectedness and making conceptual art”
Giving fourth year students at Exeter Medical School an introduction to conceptual and environmental art, looking at meaning-making and how we turn ideas into art, making art.
“This world is not conclusion”
It took several days to create a sand painting of the Compact Muon Solenoid at CERN, laboriously piling grains of sand one on another. Then soon after completion it was destroyed.
The wisdom of foolishness
Reflections on walking and talking and bouncing a tennis ball in the streets of Exeter.
“Star Spangled Kyrangle: Winter Star Lore”
The two events of the Star Spangled Kyrangle were opportunities to bring people together, and encourage them to be attentive to their place, surroundings and nature. The night sky holds many myths and stories in its depths. It has spoken to humanity since our earliest times. We too can step outside and look up, and gaze at the beauty of the night sky, and wonder.
“Elsewhere”
Not far from Land’s End, there is a small south-facing bay comprising St Loy’s Cove and Paynter’s Cove. Not many years ago, storms washed up a large chunk of metal onto the top of the beach. Now, it has been resettled to the M5 Services at Junction 30.
“The Art of Following Your Nose” at PechaKucha Dartmoor
In which I spoke for 6 minutes 40 seconds about how I fell into my art practice, and about how I have followed a number of threads, but mostly my own nose.
The horrible histories and additional alliterations of St Loyes
As part of Working with Gold, I have been writing some nuggets about the area for the website. Here, then, are its Horrible histories, Ghastly geographies, Problematic politics, and Nasty numbers.
“Turn IP” by The Swede
After complete and utter failure in 2016 and 2017, here is my third and possibly my last attempt for Turnip Prize glory.
1D, 2D, 3D, Go!
This weekend I was back at the Met Office for the NASA Space Apps Challenge, and joined the 3D Earthlings team to play with visualisation of data on a 3D representation of the Earth. Historic meteorite landings… BOOM!!
“Listening to Silent Spring” audio
“Listening to Silent Spring” is a piece of sound art, based on a listening walk around east Exeter on the 50th anniversary of publication of “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson. The sounds I noted became the script for the piece. The work is mostly silence, which allows the listener to become aware of their own ambient soundtrack.
“Q is for Quarries”
“Q is for Quarries” is an A-Z trail that allows people to discover the distinctive Heavitree Stone used to build the red skeleton of Exeter.
“The Birds of Sowton Industrial Estate”
Many of the roads on Sowton are named after birds, and there is other evidence of bird life to be found. The Birdman and I hatched a plan for a walk to discover the birds, both real and imaginary, of one of Exeter’s most neglected ecosystems.
“Star Spangled Kyrangle: Perseids Shooting Stars”
The Perseids in August are one of the most prolific meteor showers. They take their name from the constellation Perseus, the point in the sky where they appear to come. So on one Monday in August people gathered together on the Kyrangle in Digby to look up as the skies darkened and the planets and stars appeared.
“Heavitree Stone Regular”
Steven Bramble designed the alphabet. I turned it into the font used on all the Heavitree Quarry Trails outputs. I’ve made it available to download it for your own use too.
“See Exeter by Minecraft” at the AWEsome Art Fair
“See Exeter by Minecraft” is a series of old-style railway posters and a postcard, created for the utterly imaginary St Loyes Tourist Board. A second postcard was created for the equally fictitious St Loyes Education Board, and a very one-off poster for the totally fabricated St Loyes Astrophysics Board.
“Minecraft my home” meetup during Art Week Exeter
“Minecraft my home” is an ongoing activity as part of my “Working with Gold” programme of public art in St Loyes. It is a re-creation of St Loyes as a world in the Minecraft game. During Art Week Exeter, I held a meetup to explore the world together, share what we have been creating, and build more stuff.
25 pints
Recently I received through the post a small package from the Blood service: a letter, certificate and badge to mark my 25th blood donation. I didn’t expect to feel so honoured and proud.
“Minecraft my home”
“Minecraft my home” is a re-creation of St Loyes as a world in the Minecraft game. The Minecraft world lets residents explore their neighbourhood in a new way and imagine new possibilities for it.
D-Tour
My ‘thoughts looking sidewards’ about travelling the D bus route in Exeter, from the vantage point of my home office.
“What three words…?”
What three words…? is an online tool that captures in a simple way what places mean to people. It is aimed at encouraging people to pay attention to place. Between January and March 2018, I used it as a way of gathering insights into people’s views of St Loyes as a place to live and/or work.
Breaking SAD
There are times for everything under the sun. Times for sleeping, times for waking, times for planting, times for reaping, times for getting stuff done, times for taking a step back.
My favourite pie charts
A bit of fun. Some of them are more favourite than others! Now with a second helping!
Axe-grinding and the morally compromised
The sound of axes being ground is deafening, whether it’s the right-wing press incensed that the UK spends any money on overseas aid, or the UK government seeking to undermine an effective advocacy organisation. UPDATE: If you would like to help the people who Oxfam helps, see the comment for points you can make to your MP.
What are the places that mean something to you?
What are the places that mean something to you? What three words…? started out as a coding exercise. I’d been learning Javascript, and wanted to put it into practice.
Game of Life videos
If there is a problem with loading any of the code in the “Game of Life” blog, this is a companion blog of example videos.
Game of Life
The Game of Life is a pretty standard coding exercise. But what if Life is no longer seen in black and white, and instead in shades of grey? Update: Or in technicolor? And what happens if we tweak the rules?
MOOCing around with Creative Coding
I had so much fun with generative poetry in 2017 that I wanted to continue with the coding, so I embarked on a FutureLearn course with Monash University. Here’s some outputs I did earlier.
Clare goes for a bike ride
Clare is seduced by the sunshine symbol on her weather forecast app into going for a bike ride around Exeter. She plans to drop in on the FLOW tree planting on Exe Mill Field and the Ziggurat painting on Paris St to see how they are getting on.
“Working with Gold” in Digby News
One of my undertakings as Artist in Residence with Digby Community Association was to write about my work for the “Digby News”, that is published each November.
“Ceci n’est pas une neep” by Meg Reet
I should have been mowing the lawn, but instead I created my entry for the 2017 Turnip Prize. Early viewers of the work immediately grasped the referencing of Magritte and its significance, which prompted a vibrant cultural debate.
“…and the Greatest of these is Love”
In their second album, Antiphon presents world premiere recordings of three choral works by Michael Walsh: an unaccompanied Mass of the Holy Trinity; a full-scale Requiem Mass; and The Way of Love, a setting of five love poems by Rupert Brooke. We recorded it in July 2017 in the crossing and Lady Chapel in Exeter Cathedral.
Roll up! Roll up to the Art Vending Machine!
The Art Vending Machine is a fun installation that sells playing card-sized art to the regular punter. “Green|Blue: Drop Slow Tears”, the mini mirror tears, are one of eleven different multiples during the 2017/18 season.
“Dress for overcast”
In which I was a creative lead at a MozFest Fringe hack day, and also tinkered with Javascript to create some generative weather forecast poetry in motion.
“Patterns”: a Studio 36 production
Way back in the mists of time, during Art Week Exeter 2017, I had a conversation about patterns with Veronica Gosling of Studio 36. Five months later I’m singing 20th century classics and knitting on stage.
“Working with Gold” design
I’ve been having a play, and come up with a logo for “Working with Gold”, and I think a working design. Hope you like it!
Nudge nudge
Question: “Is it easier to forecast the weather, which obeys the laws of physics, or the economy, in which the actors are swayed by the forecasts?”
Grieving the future
“In this environment, the task of the prophet is not initially to lead a movement toward social renewal, but to lead the people in creative, artistic, public lament.” – Walter Brueggemann, The Prophetic Imagination
Northbrook mouth to source
Twas on the day of the autumn equinox that Diana and I decided to walk the Northbrook from mouth to source.
Working with gold, weaving with data – talk content
Further to yesterday’s post about my five-minute talk “Working with gold, weaving with data” at Exeter City Futures, I thought I’d share more of the talk content.
Working with gold, weaving with data
Exeter City Futures’ Connect events are an opportunity to share ideas on the big problems that they believe Exeter needs to solve as it transitions towards becoming energy independent and congestion free. At the Autumn Connect, I presented my developing vision for a programme of art in St Loyes, aimed at nurturing a sense of place and building community.
What does it mean to be Artist in Residence, literally in residence?
I’ve been playfully exploring my local area for a number of years, its history, geography, biodiversity, archaeology, and myth – some invented! This Kaleider Lunchtime Talk was a shout-out to anyone with an interest in any aspect of place-based art and/or who lives in St Loyes.
What have taxes ever done for us?
For Creationtide 2017, Eco Church South West has produced a series of prayers and short reflections on the theme of ‘Inspiring Earth’. You can sign up to a daily email with ideas and resources each morning between the 1st September and the 4th October. I contributed one of the reflections.
Second Curve
I heard management guru Charles Handy speak at Greenbelt on the need for second, third fourth… curves to living a fulfilling life.
“Green|Blue” at Greenbelt
I had a wonderful time showing Green|Blue at Greenbelt… mostly! It just wouldn’t be the same if I wasn’t cursing how complicated and time-consuming it is to set up my art stuff, especially when I only had 3-6pm on a Sunday afternoon to set up, show, and take down.
Clare and Rosie go for a wander
My ideas for an artist’s residency in St Loyes Exeter are gathering momentum. I’m close to putting in my first grant application, and on Friday 28 July Rosie King kindly joined me on a walk around the ward. It’s an area ripe for an artistic response!
Label-free
Clare Bryden. Label-free. The Porch Magazine, May/June 2017.
Who am I? I can and do slap any number of labels on myself. I am not alone. Other people slap labels on themselves. We slap labels on each other. Then the labels I give myself and others affect how I see myself, how I see others, how I expect them to see me, and how I interact with them.
#ExeterClimateHope at “Think…Art”
Today, my “Little colouring books of climate mindfulness” popped up in the Exeter University Forum alongside “Green|Blue: Exe”. I was doing a colour-by-numbers activity as part of “Think…Art”, a day of free fun artistic activities linked to the University’s research themes.
“Green|Blue: Future Shock” video at Fringe Arts Bath
Now that my Cathedral show and “Primordial Soup” at Fringe Arts Bath are over, here is the two minute video I created for the latter and included in the former.
“Green|Blue: Exe” in “The Observatory” exhibition
“Green|Blue: Exe” is showing in “The Observatory: perspectives on landscape, society and spirit” in Exeter University Forum. It’s on until Sunday 18th June, and open 10am-5pm each day.
Selected work at “Makers of the Multiverse”
Spacex commissioned Juneau Projects to create “Makers of the Multiverse”, presenting work as multiples, by multiple artists, for the duration of Art Week Exeter and beyond.
To all lovers of musick, performers & scrapers!
An evening performance of madrigals, catches, and glees in the Music Room at Powderham Castle.
“Green|Blue” in Exeter Cathedral
After Art Week Exeter, I had a week to turn around and prep the next outing for “Green|Blue”. And it was my most high profile yet: a solo show in the Cathedral! Featuring work previously shown at Dartington Garden Room Gallery, work coming up at Fringe Arts Bath, and new “Patternings”.
“Green|Blue: Exe” at the AWEsome Art Fair
One of the brill things happening during Art Week Exeter 2017 was the AWEsome Art Show featuring work by most of the participating artists.
Clare’s Open Studio
For Art Week Exeter, I thought I’d open my newly-painted garage studio up to the world. Complete with kettle and lots of cake. It was a chance to show some of my work since 2014, and to ask for ideas for art in St Loyes.
Talk on “Green|Blue” at Pint of Science
This was my second trip to Pint of Science. In 2015, I took “Particulart” into The Ship Inn. In 2017, it was the turn of both “Green|Blue” and “Little Colouring Books” in the Exeter Phoenix workshop room. With a small bar in the corner, pints were assured.
“Songs in the Neighbourhood”
Along Broadfields Road in St Loyes, the roads are named after English composers and it’s always summer. A goodly number came and joined Sine Nomine in serenading the neighbourhood with the music of each composer on their eponymous street corner.
Safety net
My map is a comfort blanket. Its grid lines are a safety net that give me the confidence to stride out. It gives me a sense of being in control.
Ultimate HOPE
Written for TEDxExeter 2017 “HOPE”: Reflections on death, and that even in the darkest places and the fiercest storms, there is always hope.
“Green|Blue” in the Dartington Garden Room Gallery
The Garden Room Gallery is a lovely space for a show, just down the hill from the main buildings on the Dartington Hall estate. It was a first opportunity to show my new framing of “Green|Blue”, together with “Drop Slow Tears”.
Imaging HOPE
Written for TEDxExeter 2017 “HOPE”: Images are extraordinarily powerful. Those able to see, see before we learn to read, and orient our world by sight. They can convey truth, and they can manipulate, so should we be hopeful or despairing?
A fortnight of HOPEful responses
Written for TEDxExeter 2017 “HOPE”: During 82 seconds on Wednesday 22 March, Briton Khalid Masood drove a car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, killing and injuring more than 50 people; fatally stabbed an unarmed police officer in New Palace Yard; and was shot and killed by an armed police officer. Over the next fortnight, these were some of the responses.
Point sources of HOPE
Written for TEDxExeter 2017 “HOPE”: Hope can come from unlikely sources… What would be the most unlikely and surprising source of all?
“Little colouring books” in the “Kuuki” exhibition
“Kuuki : the things we take for granted, but cannot live without” is a response to climate change and other environmental concerns, and a statement on the desperate need for social change.
Audacity of HOPE
Written for TEDxExeter 2017 “HOPE”: Sometimes it’s easy to lose hope, but sometimes hope can come from unlikely sources.
Voices of HOPE
Written for TEDxExeter 2017 “HOPE”: Music has played an important role in many social movements, bringing hope to millions, fostering community, and encouraging perseverance in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
HOPE and Joy
Written for TEDxExeter 2017 “HOPE”: The Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu got together for a week to talk about the challenges of living a joyful life. The result was “The Book of Joy”.
Wiggle Room in the Universe
Clare Bryden. Wiggle room in the universe. The Porch Magazine, October 2016.
“Suppose you had the revolution you are talking and dreaming about. Suppose your side had won, and you had the kind of society that you wanted. How would you live, you personally, in that society? Start living that way now!” – Paul Goodman. Clare Bryden embraces Rebecca Solnit’s vision of Hope in the Dark.
Taking responsibility for our own statistics
A series of things that interest me which have a TED or TEDx angle: The data and statistics that are being collected about us reflect our selves and the way we see the world.
Introverted Leadership
A series of things that interest me which have a TED or TEDx angle: Reflections on Susan Cain’s TED talk “The Power of Introverts” and lessons from “Watership Down”.
A new HOPE
Written for TEDxExeter 2017 “HOPE”: What was the last line we saw Carrie Fisher (albeit a CGI-reconstructed ever-youthful Carrie Fisher) deliver in a movie before she died?
Analysing progress on Shrinking the Footprint in Exeter Diocese
This was a follow-up project to my consultancy work in 2009/10 on energy and climate change work in Exeter Diocese, to analyse progress based on evidence from Archdeacons’ Articles of Enquiry, and write a report for presentation at Diocesan Synod.
“Little colouring book: Winter Blues” in the “Artist Toys” exhibition
The idea for the “Little colouring books” originated partly in the games I made for my “Particulart: Up in the Air” show. It seemed a natural progession to create more playful engagement with climate change. Although the maps are of the UK, they can be applied elsewhere, and I am very happy that they have made their way to other lands.
What is Art?
Clare Bryden. Particulart: the art of knitting, chemistry, and gentle protest. Average Art Magazine, “What is Art?” issue, 1 December 2016.
Kaleider Lunchtime Talk on “Green|Blue”
I introduced my new work and together we explored “GreenlBlue”, which uses flood risk data from the Environment Agency to question our knowledge and power in the face of uncertainty and the force of nature.
World Origami Day
In modern times, origami has been used as a beacon of hope. I created the origami “Soul Cube” to help me get past that powerful critical voice in my head and access the deeper nurturing wise voice that speaks words I need to hear.
Giving TED talks to know you’re not alone
A series of things that interest me which have a TED or TEDx angle: The benefits of collecting so many statistics on the number of times a talk is viewed and the related web pages are accessed.
“That’s a Turnip for the Books?!”
In 2007, the Turnip Prize disqualified Banksy from competition for “trying too hard”. In 2016, I think I probably tried too hard.
Watching TED talks to know you’re not alone
A series of things that interest me which have a TED or TEDx angle: There are myriads of reasons why people watch TED and TEDx talks, and myriads of outcomes.
Notes for a small island
Clare Bryden. Notes for a small island. Church Times, 28 October 2016.
As sterling wobbles, Clare Bryden investigates revolutionary approaches to money and economics
Who is my neighbour? Who is your neighbour?
An anonymous note from ‘A concerned neighbour’ and my response.
“Ghost Bees” in the “Dark Art” exhibition
Five of the eight “Ghost Bees” I knitted for TRAIL and three of Cleo’s four remained at the end of the summer. My five are currently appearing in a gem of an exhibition at the Barnfield Theatre.
“Particulart: Up in the Air” pop-up at the Fun Palace
“Fun Palaces is a movement campaigning for culture by, for and with all – with a firm belief that community belongs at the core of all culture – and an annual weekend of events… Everyone an Artist, Everyone a Scientist.”
Let’s Explore…
I’ve been doing some work for TEDxExeter on a new learning initiative, a series of education pods based around themed TEDxExeter talks. We’re calling it Let’s Explore… and so far have covered Happiness (ie mental health) and Nature.
“Little colouring book: Winter Blues” in the “Toying With Art” exhibition
It’s a toy shop that isn’t a toy shop, full of toys that aren’t toys.
“Particulart: Up in the Air” pop-up at Greenbelt
I was at the Greenbelt Festival over the August bank holiday. As part of a fantastic weekend, I gave a Pecha Kucha talk about my art work, and “Particulart: Up in the Air” popped up in the Allotment Gallery.
PechaKucha on “Green|Blue” at Greenbelt
For the second time, I was at Greenbelt giving a PechaKucha about my artwork. Last year it was about “Particulart”. This year I was showing “Particulart” in the Allotment Shed gallery on Sunday, and my PechaKucha on Saturday was about my work and motivations more generally.
“Ghost Bees” at Teignmouth Recycled Art in the Landscape
This summer, if you happen to be wandering along the Teignmouth sea-front, you will happen across twelve “Ghost Bees” hovering in the flower bed between Pavilions and Pier.
Five go to the voting booth
A series of things that interest me which have a TED or TEDx angle. First up, Brexit and young people and how to get them to vote.
“Particulart: Exhausted” at Oxford Festival of Arts
The overall aim of Particulart is to engage people with environmental and social issues and challenge the status quo through the power of knitting, science, and public art. In addition, “Exhausted” aimed to promote public awareness and provoke reflection on urban air quality, through a quirky display enabling playful interaction. It appeared at “Test Drive the Future”, an exhibition of electric vehicles, that will help solve the problem of air pollution.
“Particulart: Greenhouse Effect” at Low Carbon Oxford Week
The overall aim of Particulart is to engage people with environmental and social issues and challenge the status quo through the power of knitting, science, and public art. In addition, “Greenhouse Effect” aimed to promote public awareness and provoke reflection on climate change and the underlying science, through appealing to different ways of accessing information – words and numbers, sight and touch – and enabling playful interaction.
“Freefall Climate Graffiti” at Exeter Phoenix
The visible results of Freefall Climate Graffiti at the Exeter Phoenix will be ephemeral. Have a drink in the café outside seating area, and ponder the graffiti climate maps of the UK, before they’re painted over. Help yourself from, and add to, the woolly wall. Pick up a booklet about the project from the Phoenix box office.
Repainting Exeter Phoenix’s graffiti wall with UK Climate Projections, with Miss*C and the Freefall Youth Group.
“Freefall Climate Graffiti”: Spraying the Wall
Finally on the Saturday we could get down to the real painting. It was brilliant to see most of the Freefall group join us for a session outside their regular Thursday evening slot.
“Freefall Climate Graffiti” Workshop 3: Making the Stencils and Skills Sharing
Making the stencils was a big job, literally. We are going to build up the images from a base layer of the main colour, and add the other colours as layers on top. It means we can be canny re what stencils we need.
“Freefall Climate Graffiti” Workshop 2: Preparing the Wall
While the Freefall youth group took it in turns to bluewash the Phoenix graffiti wall… the Met Office knitting group gave the others a crash course in crafting, and much crochet and more pompoms were created.
“Freefall Climate Graffiti” Workshop 1: Climate Science and Street Art
This week and the next two weeks Cleo Heard and I are running workshops with the Freefall youth group in preparation for painting the Phoenix graffiti wall with the UK Climate Projections during Art Week Exeter. As well as climate science and street art, Workshop 1 also covered design for colour blindness.
Story of “Free Art Friday Exeter”
Free Art Friday is a worldwide movement that has existed for many years. I started Free Art Friday Exeter in July 2015, and collaborate with other artists in leaving pieces in public places to be discovered and taken for free.
God’s eye view
I’ve been working on a set of 21 images of flood risk around the south coast of England, from Sussex to Bristol. What has emerged is a beautiful forest of sometimes fragile, sometimes twisted trees.
“Particulart: Up in the Air” pop-up at TEDxExeter
Clare was honoured to be able to show Particulart at TEDxExeter 2016, in between a nice lot of Particulart-relevant talks(!) such as Danny Dorling on different ways of mapping the world, Alan Smith on how statistics are about Us, and the video of Al Gore’s latest TED talk on climate change.
Dream team
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: Even in football, it is possible to have dreams of community, to play as a team instead of individual starlets.
Dream location
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: How we can help shape the place we live, through local government and at the grass roots.
I have a dream
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: Martin Luther King dreamed of a better world, and he had been to the mountaintop. And yet it wasn’t about the mountain, but about the view over the mountain to what lies ahead.
Dreamtime
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: Some individuals have forgotten the songlines. They have become alienated from the land and cannot bear too much reality.
Technicolor Dreamcoats
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: What is your dream? Are you willing to let it upend your reality?
“Einstein’s Dreams”
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: In his dreams, Einstein imagines many possible worlds, set in the towns of his homeland, in the valleys of the Alps, on the banks of the River Aare
Dream world
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: When you wish upon a star, you’re a few million lightyears late. That star is dead. Just like your dreams.
“Particulart: Up in the Air” pop-up at WAM Fest
That’s nothing to do with the 1980s pop group, but the Festival of Weather, Art and Music. The 2016 event was all about “Extreme Weather and You”, and there were loads of activities on the programme, from print-making to climate roulette.
Killing dreams
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: Tread softly because you might be treading on others’ dreams… or your own.
A hymn to bees
Clare Bryden. A hymn to bees. Third Way Magazine, March 2016.
As the first shoots and blooms appear, Clare Bryden welcomes the returning buzz of bees, and takes a year-round look at the complex threats to these and other pollinators so necessary to the interconnected web of creation.
“Memories, Dreams, Reflections”
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: For Carl Jung, dreams were a window on the unconscious, enabling the dreamer to communicate with and come to know the unconscious, and tap into it as a source of creativity.
Dream succeeds dream
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: In the UK, the dream of suffrage has been succeeded by the dream of full equality for women.
First a dream
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: “All we need to begin with is a dream that we can do better than before. All we need to have is faith, and that dream will come true. All we need to do is act, and the time for action is now.”
Living the dream
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: An introduction to the series… Once upon a time, the Old English dream meant “joy, mirth, noisy merriment” or “music”.
“Particulart: Up in the Air” pop-up in Exeter Cathedral
The Holy Ground service happens once a month in Exeter Cathedral. The evenings very often engage in social issues, which is why this December it was held to coincide with the Paris climate negotiations, and why the “Up in the Air” pop-up made a special appearance.
“Particulart: Up in the Air” video in Exeter Cathedral
Exeter Cathedral is hosting an “Up in the Air” video installation for the duration of the Paris climate negotiations. I’m proud that it is part of ArtCOP21, the global climate art festival.
Talk – “Particulart” at Abingdon Carbon Cutters
Abingdon is my home town, so I took the opportunity to be a visiting speaker at the Carbon Cutters monthly meeting.
“O My People”
Antiphon’s “O My People” is “A collection of sublime 20th and 21st century a cappella choral music, including several world première recordings.” We recorded it in August 2015 in the magnificent acoustic of the Lady Chapel in Exeter Cathedral.
Talks and media – Exeter Pound
Exeter Pound is the city’s own currency, aimed at supporting independent enterprises and promoting a more flourishing local economy. From 2015-16 I served on the Board of the Exeter Pound Community Interest Company.
Dreams to Reality
Written for TEDxExeter 2016 “Dreams to Reality”: In 2016, we want to encapsulate the idea of movement… that grappling with humanity’s toughest questions requires first a vision, a dream, and then action.
Who has the wisdom?
Who has put wisdom in the inward parts,
or given understanding to the mind?
Who has the wisdom to number the clouds?
Or who can tilt the waterskins of the heavens,
— Job 38:36-37
Talks, sermons, lectures and media – Climate and environment
Drawing on my work at the Met Office, on the Shrinking the Footprint campaign in the Diocese of Exeter, as an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Exeter, as a member of Transition Exeter, and while living in the eco-monastery at Mucknell Abbey.
When the world acted for the good
Clare Bryden. When the world acted for the good. Church Times, 2 October 2015.
Agreements on ozone show how countries can do the right thing, says Clare Bryden
“Particulart: Up in the Air” pop-up at Relight My Fire
“Up in the Air” popped up for a second time at the Relight My Fire festival of energy and the arts run by RegenSW. Indoors this time, and slimmed down without roof or games area. It just about fit in the space.
“Particulart: Ozone Day”
Released on Ozone Day 2015, knitted representations of the three main stratospheric ozone depletion equations: the breakdown of CFC-11 in sunlight releasing a chlorine atom, and the cycle of ozone destruction catalysed by this chlorine.
More tea? Yes, and do take your time
Clare Bryden. More tea? Yes, and do take your time. Church Times, 11 September 2015.
A quick coffee might suit some, but there is no substitute for ritual, Clare Bryden discovers.
“Particulart: Up in the Air” pop-up at Exeter Green Fair
Exeter Green Fair on 5 September saw the debut of my new “Up in the Air” pop-up. Under a blue gazebo (the sky), I suspended eight pale blue hula hoops (clouds), and from these the eight greenhouse gases.
PechaKucha on “Particulart” at Greenbelt
PechaKucha is a new way of doing Powerpoint presentations. There are 20 slides, which must be images only, and they change automatically every 20 seconds, so the talk is only 6 minutes 40 seconds in total. It becomes more of a performance than a presentation.
The day I jumped out of an aeroplane
Hospiscare does amazing work in caring for terminally ill people and providing respite for their carers, and relies on the generosity of many people to continue this work. I have had a surprising number of connections with them, through friends, family friends, work, church, and singing. So I wanted to do something to help.
“The art of knitting, chemistry, and gentle protest” for Power Culture blog
RegenSW asked me to write for its new blog “Power Culture: exploring our energy generation through the arts”. It took me 44 years to learn to follow the energy, so here’s the story of how Particulart sparked and took on its own energy…
“Energy infrastructures inhabit our interior landscapes” for Power Culture blog
I am almost certain that Didcot Power Station’s looming bulk sparked my interest in energy and shaped my environmental interests and career. But I am not the only person which it has sensitised. Many regard it as a blot on the landscape, many others have seen its sculptural appeal. A guest blog for Regen SW.
“Particulart: Up in the Air” in the Glorious Art House
The overall aim of Particulart is to engage people with environmental and social issues and challenge the status quo through the power of knitting, science, and public art. In addition, “Up in the Air” aimed to promote public awareness and provoke reflection on climate change and the underlying science, through appealing to different ways of accessing information – words and numbers, sight and touch – and enabling playful interaction.
Knit-your-own carbon dioxide workshop
As part of the Particulart: Up in the Air exhibition, Diana Moore of Particulart and Knit-Stop ran a knit-your-own carbon dioxide workshop.
“Touch:Triptych” in the Exeter Community Centre Summer Exhibition
My first piece in my first exhibition! The three panels of Touch:Triptych together for the first time.
Talk on “Particulart” at Pint of Science
On Monday 18th May, I took “Particulart” into the unfamiliar territory – The Ship Inn in the middle of Exeter – as part of the annual worldwide Pint of Science festival.
“Knitting and other revolutionary acts”
Clare Bryden. Knitting and other revolutionary acts. Third Way Magazine, May 2015.
As competing political voices reach election crescendo, could it be that artistic, home-spun forms of activism are more positive and quietly persuasive? Clare Bryden hails the rise of ‘Craftivism’ and explains how knitting can change the world.
Taking the Long View: Further together
Written for TEDxExeter 2015 “Taking the Long View”: There’s an old African proverb that says “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Also a tribute to the wonderful TEDxExeter team.
Taking the Long View: Up the Women
Written for TEDxExeter 2015 “Taking the Long View”: From Clause 40 in Magna Carta to HIllary Clinton via the suffragists and suffragettes – the long struggle for women’s political rights, and a call to vote on 7 May [sigh].
“Particulart: A Stitch in Time” in Bristol Cathedral
During Lent 2015 – 18 February to 4 April – the Church of England in the South West ran a Carbon Fast. It was 40 days to reflect on how we affect our planet and consider what we can do to reduce our carbon footprint. “A Stitch in Time” ran roughly concurrently, showing 3D knitted representations of a series of greenhouse gases that are implicated in climate change.
Taking the Long View: If you go down to the woods today…
Written for TEDxExeter 2015 “Taking the Long View”: The short-termism of deforestation, and some hopeful examples of the long view of reafforestation.
Taking the Long View: Climate change and knitting
Written for TEDxExeter 2015 “Taking the Long View”: The Guardian’s campaign to keep fossil fuels in the ground, a Lenten Carbon Fast; and how I take the long view in my knitting and arts practice.
Didcot Power Station, art installation
Didcot Power Station dominated the landscape of my childhood. I am fairly sure that its looming bulk sparked my interest in energy, and possibly shaped my environmental interests and career. It has also generated a surprising level of artistic response.
Taking the Long View: The telescope
Written for TEDxExeter 2015 “Taking the Long View”: Taking the literal view of the Long View, a smattering of quite interesting factoids about the origins of the telescope and its name; the transit of Venus and Cook’s voyages; and the Interplanetary Scintillation Array and other more modern telescopes.
Taking the Long View: Magna Carta
Written for TEDxExeter 2015 “Taking the Long View”: The 800th anniversary of Magna Carta was the inspiration behind the 2015 theme. Why we chose that and not the 50th anniversary of the Sound of Music.
Lecture – “Particulart, or the art of knitting, chemistry, meditation and gentle protest”
Last night, at somewhat short notice, I stepped into a breach and gave a St Michael’s Lecture. I liked the title so much, I adopted it for the work.
Rainfall as blessing
During Lent 2015, Eco Church South West is promoting a Carbon Fast, focusing on water. You can sign up to daily emails containing an action, bible reading and reflection. I wrote about rain as a blessing for today’s reflection.
“Particulart, or the art of knitting, chemistry, meditation and gentle protest”
Particulart is all about knitting. It’s also all about the Exeter Incinerator, which was inaugurated on 16th October 2014, and about waste management strategy, and monitoring emissions, and the environment, and health, and transparency, and visual impact, and chemistry.
Candlemas-ology
Today is the Feast of the Presentation of Christ at the Temple, otherwise known as Candlemas. Was establishment of the Feast linked to a volcanic eruption?
Cultural highlights of 2014
Clare Bryden. Cultural highlights of 2014: The Bookshop in Wigtown, Scotland. Third Way Magazine, February 2015.
“Particulart” in the Real Food café
The original “Particulart” was a collaboration between Clare Bryden and Diana Moore, exhibiting in the Exeter Real Food café during autumn 2014. Knitting and emitting particles was our way of telling other people about the Exeter Incinerator and its potential impacts.
“Where have we put our treasure?”
I explore where our treasure lies in today’s world for the Bright Now Blog run by Operation Noah.
Culture vulture
It’s difficult to choose my cultural highlight of 2014. It has been a good year so far, and it’s not over yet!
BBC Bias
The complaint I made to the BBC for refusing to include the Green Party in the general election TV leader debates.
#BAD14 #Inequality
Today is Blog Action Day, and in 2014 the theme is Inequality. I’m afraid I’m going to cheat, and post stuff I’ve written earlier. Some is a bit dated (anyone remember Michael Gove?), but I think the core message is still relevant…
What the frack?
Clare Bryden. What the frack? Third Way Magazine, October 2014.
Depending who you ask, hydraulic fracturing – fracking – is either a panacea for our energy crisis or an environmental apocalypse in waiting. Clare Bryden drills through the propaganda in search of some answers.
A Spirit of Our Time
Clare Bryden. A Spirit of Our Time. Resurgence Magazine online, September/October 2014.
Clare Bryden introduces Simone Weil, whose life and philosophy were one and the same.
“Petroleum”
BP has been found “grossly negligent” in the lead-up to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. I wrote a series of haikus in response to the original event, and other oil-related events past and imagined,
Whatever dieting works for you
When one hits mid-life, one is obligated to have a crisis, right?
TEDxExeter 2015 – Taking the Long View
Introducing the TEDxExeter 2015 theme of “Taking the Long View”: asking about the responsibilities the past places on us, and how taking the long view into the future can shape the way we live and the decisions we make.
IT, the internet and social media: implications for spirituality and the church
On the 3rd Sunday of each month, Holy Trinity Church Exmouth runs a Hard Questions Café, where tough life questions can be explored in a frank and non-judgemental way. Here are the stories and questions I used.
Information Without Frontiers
Written for TEDxExeter 2014 “Ideas Without Frontiers”: Access to the World Wide Web, being overwhelmed, information security, and is Google making us stupid?
#AnonymousCompanies
Those of you who are avid consumers of all things TED will know that the main TED conference took place last week. One of the many outstanding talks was given by Charmian Gooch, the recipient of the 2014 TED Prize. Gooch founded the organisation Global Witness in 1993 with two friends, one of whom happens … Read more
Research Without Frontiers
Written for TEDxExeter 2014 “Ideas Without Frontiers”: The value of focusing attention and how boundaries inspire creativity, as well as pushing the frontiers of knowledge and Interdisciplinary sparks.
Nature Without Frontiers
Written for TEDxExeter 2014 “Ideas Without Frontiers”: More about the reality of some physical frontiers, while pollutants do not respect national boundaries.
People Without Frontiers
Written for TEDxExeter 2014 “Ideas Without Frontiers”: More about pilgrims than immigrants, and how our planet is bounded whereas our imaginations aren’t.
Money Without Frontiers
Written for TEDxExeter 2014 “Ideas Without Frontiers”: Forex flows, international debt, tax avoidance, respiratory illness metaphors, and where there is a frontier that needs dismantling.
Eco-theology seminars
Seminars for people on the South West Ministry Training Course, training for ministry in the Church of England.
Zombie Apocalypse
“I would ask you to take a walk on your own (where and at what time of day is up to you) for at least half an hour. I would like you to walk ‘as’ the last human survivor of a zombie apocalypse.”
Ethics on hold?
Clare Bryden. Ethics on hold? Third Way Magazine, November 2013.
Is the smartphone in your pocket fuelling violence on the other side of the world? Clare Bryden asks some uncomfortable questions about our complex relationship with gadgets – and investigates new ways to connect more ethically.
How Place Shapes Prayer
Clare Bryden. How Place Shapes Prayer. Reform Magazine, November 2013.
Clare Bryden explores the spirituality of place in a Benedictine community in Worcestershire.
Far more than two’s company
Clare Bryden. Far more than two’s company. Church Times, 11 October 2013.
Crowdfunding is one way of raising finance which can benefit church and community projects, and offer ethical projects for donors and investors, Clare Bryden discovers.
In search of pseudo-sacred spaces
Yesterday was the feast day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of the environment. So it’s appropriate that I spent the afternoon walking with Phil Mythogeography Smith in search of sacred and pseudo-sacred spaces.
Blackberrying for beginners
Clare Bryden. Blackberrying for beginners. Resurgence Magazine, Sep/Oct 2013.
Shortlisted essay from the Resurgence & Ecologist Nature Writing Competition.
“A Suburban Serenade”
It happened! Possibly not one of the daftest ideas I’ve had, but must be one of the dafter ideas I’ve pursued.
Maslow’s hierarchy
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is 70 years old. Here’s my version reflecting the hierarchy in the UK and US.
Devon County Twouncillors
A list of the Twitter accounts of Devon County Councillors in Exeter wards.
Exeter City Twouncillors
I have been impressed in recent weeks at the usefulness of Twitter in engaging with councillors and other movers and shakers in and around Exeter City Council. Within limits, though, as you’ll be able to see from my list arranged by political party.
The quite interesting-ness of pillar boxes
Look up post boxes on the internet, and you stumble into a strange and fascinating place.
Response from Hugo Swire MP
Finally, on 3 September I received a letter dated 21 August in response to mine of 2 August. But I have some comments…
The questions will always be with us
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: Just a bit of humour…
“I have a dream” … for Exeter Bus Station!
I have a dream of a mix of local retail, local business, charities and social entrepreneurs, artists’ studios and housing.
An appeal to inner values
Clare Bryden. An appeal to inner values. Church Times, 30 August 2013.
Good causes will get further by emphasising their intrinsic worth rather than external rewards, argues Clare Bryden.
No response from Hugo Swire MP
I’ve not yet received a direct response from Hugo Swire MP to my letter about the family from Clyst St George needing to walk 11 miles to Exeter Foodbank and back.
Exeter Library Square
How we name our streets and public buildings is a reflection of the values of history and our values today. It subconsciously and subtly affects our self-worth.
Letter to Hugo Swire MP
How is it that in a country as wealthy as the UK, more than 500,000 people are reliant on food parcels? Please represent your constituents, and do something to address food poverty, injustice and inequality.
Tewlwolow Kernow
It was a hot bright day during the 2013 summer heatwave. I approached from below through the gardens recently planted with exotics from even hotter climes. I passed through a circular seating space, an antechamber, through a narrow door into a low and dark space stoppered by light in front and behind, and opened out suddenly into bright height.
A lane of two halves: one year on
Last year, I did the first half of a walk down the 1800s route of Woodwater Lane. I managed the western half as far as the Retail Park, before giving up due to the rain. Exactly one year later, I completed the journey.
Site-Specific Exercises
OrganicARTS, based at West Town Farm near Ide, has done a lot of work with pottery using clay from the Farm, natural materials and dyes, and it has been an ambition to encourage writers too.
Wildflower whispers!
Now is the time when we most need our pollinators, and our pollinators need wildflowers to thrive. So I have been feeling sad over the last few days about the acres of wildflowers in the verges in Exeter that are being strimmed, and took it upon myself to protest a little…
Review of “Counter-Tourism: The Handbook”
Clare Bryden. Review of “Counter-Tourism: The Handbook” assembled by Crab Man. Third Way Magazine, June 2013.
Digging where we stand
Clare Bryden. Digging where we stand. Third Way Magazine, June 2013.
Driven by restless searching, our modern world often seems to undermine the very community we crave. But Clare Bryden believes that’s an invitation to dig deeper for the roots that truly sustain us.
As if people mattered, 40 years on
Clare Bryden. As if people mattered, 40 years on. Church Times, 24 May 2013.
E. F. Schumacher’s ideas still need to be reckoned with, argues Clare Bryden.
Must. Not. Get. Sarcastic. Ach failed again.
Oh dear, I was writing about Silent Spring by Rachel Carson, then I was writing about modern criticism of the book, then I was writing about environmental regulation vs economic freedom, then I was quoting George Osborne, and it all went downhill from there. But I enjoyed the rant 🙂
Nuclear – a low-carbon low-cost energy-secure future?
In the 3 May edition of the Church Times, Bishop Anthony Priddis wrote an article extolling thorium: “Thorium: it’s green, nuclear, safe”. I have just sent a Letter to the editor in response, questioning his underlying assumptions.
Should I do the ironing?
My electricity monitor usefully shows how much I’m using, without me having to dig out the key in order to read the outdoor meter. I also want to know how I best I can use my lovely solar electricity.
Thoughts on living and campaigning
It’s impossible and unhealthy to live with heightened anxiety over a long period of time. And scaring people and making them feel guilty are rubbish motivators of behavioural change.
“#turnedoutgreyagain”, a Twoem
Blackbird perched precariously in pyracantha, picking at plentiful berries. #ventriloquismforbeginners
Living the Questions at TEDxExeter 2013
There are several possible origins for the word ‘religion’ and its modern senses. None of these need imply certainty and rule out doubt. I want to go back to the etymological origins of ‘religion’, and ask a few questions. In the spirit of the TEDxExeter 2013 theme of Living the Questions, I’m not expecting to answer them.
LtQ: If you could ask a stranger any question, what would it be?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: Self-explanatory, really.
A Guardian reader in the making
Like many, one of my most vivid memories of infant school was the ritual of drinking our morning third-pint of milk.
Pilgrim at the Northbrook
I intended to spend the morning re-reading Annie Dillard’s Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, but instead spent the morning reading around it. So after lunch, I allowed the sun to call me out for a walk down by my very own Tinker Creek that is the Northbrook.
Living the Questions: How’s it going?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: Stop trying to solve negative things, and work with positive things instead.
Visit a mythical land – our own
Clare Bryden. Visit a mythical land – our own. Review of “Mythogeography: A Guide to Walking Sideways” by Phil Smith. Reform Magazine, April 2013.
LtQ: What do you want to be when you grow up?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: “The neurotic is a person who worries about something that did not happen in the past. He’s [sic] not like us normal people who worry about things that will not happen in the future.”
Living the Questions: Where am I?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: Throw away your satnav, experiment with deliberate lostness and reconnect with where you are.
LtQ: What if the Hokey Cokey really IS what it’s all about?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: You’ll just have to read it.
Living the Questions: Fancy a pint?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: OK, actually about climate change: why Doha was so important, how it has been forgotten, and what you can do.
Living the Questions: Who ate all the pie?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: Inequality – estimated, actual, and ideal – and what we can do about it.
LtQ: Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: Allowing Paul Gauguin to ask the questions, and invite contemplation of the meaning of life.
Living the Questions: What are we missing?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: Quite possibly one of the world’s best musicians on the street corner, or a myriad other things.
Living the Questions: Why is the sky blue?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: Moving from Rayleigh scattering to why children keep asking why, and why many adults stop.
Living the Questions: Who am I?
Written for TEDxExeter 2013 “Living the Questions”: Trying not to define myself by my job or any roles, the labels the world would like to slap on me, or any of my mind, emotions or body in isolation from the rest.
“Gaudete”
Counterpoint choir has just released a new CD of music as ancient and deep as time itself: the most beautiful expressions of the joys and sorrows of the Christmas narrative and Incarnation.
Synod and the unengaged majority
The Women Bishops Measure was lost in the House of Laity, by six votes. It might not be a rejection of women bishops, just the enabling legislation, but it sure feels like a rejection to me.
Surname migration
The Great Britain Family Names website allows you to find out where your surname comes from, and how many people share it. Bryden isn’t that common, but what interests me is the geographical spread.
The Power of We: Congo Calling
Blog Action Day falls within Congo Week, and “The Power of We” is beautifully exemplified by the Congo Calling campaign.
Peril of eating all the pie.
Clare Bryden. Peril of eating all the pie. Review of “The Price of Inequality” by Joseph E. Stiglitz. Church Times, 12 October 2012.
Clare Bryden studies an analysis of the economic crisis.
Buy this
Brueggemann: “the yearning for land is always a serious historical enterprise concerned with historical power and belonging. Such a dimension is clearly played upon by the suburban and exurban real estate ads that appeal to that rapacious hunger.”
Municipal-planting-rowan jelly
There’s a rowan tree planted beside the bus stop on Grecian Way, and this autumn it’s laden with bright red berries.
Autumn audit
In honour of Silent Spring, I spent two hours wandering around my neighbourhood and listening. Listening not just for birds, but for everything, including all those sounds we usually tune out.
Silent Spring
Today is the 50th anniversary of the publication of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. In its honour, I am spending a couple of hours walking around my neighbourhood listening for bird song. In the meantime, here are three short posts I wrote a year and a half ago, reflecting on the book.
Richard Long woz ‘ere
Today was the first time ever, at least for years, that I’ve seen another deliberate blackberrier in Ludwell Valley Park.
Hanging out in Ludwell
It was late afternoon when I walked down to Ludwell Valley Park to pick blackberries. I’d just started, around a kink in the hedge and mostly hidden from the gate, when I heard lads’ voices.
Blue, the colour of home
A response to Rebecca Solnit’s A Field Guide to Getting Lost and the BBC programme A History of Art in Three Colours, Blue.
Woodwater plants
The house martins were gathering and sporting on the wing, prior to departure for warmer climes, and Mark Lane from Wilderness Guide kindly popped over to see what plants we could find in Woodwater Lane in September.
Counter-tourism memories
Malbork Castle in Poland, built in the mediaeval period by the Teutonic Knights, is the largest castle in the world by surface area, and the largest brick building in Europe. I visited with a friend in 1992.
Talks and workshops – Energy in church buildings
During 2009/10 I worked as a consultant on the Shrinking the Footprint campaign in the Diocese of Exeter, and the following year lived in the eco-monastery at Mucknell Abbey.
Smash and grab
I cycled to the dog-walkers’ field above Ludwell Valley Park. I found blackberries. I picked blackberries. I cycled home. I made blackberry water ice.
Mythogeography – a response
A response to Phil Smith Mythogeography: a Guide to Walking Sideways.
The not-knowing
Sometimes the mystery and the not-knowing are more satisfying and enjoyable than solution.
Olympic mythogeography
I’ve always had a problem with buses. Mythogeography tells me to get on a random bus, and see where it takes me for a set number of stops. But I’m able to end up here there and everywhere, even when I’m just trying to get home.
Summer fruits
I was away from Exeter for a couple of weeks, and when I returned (though I returned) I remained absent. It was several days before I remembered it was ‘high summer’ and there was free fruit to be had in Ludwell Valley Park and along the suburban margins.
Stone of St Loyes Chapel
Much of the stone used to build St Loyes Chapel looks as though it came from Heavitree Quarry, but there were many other types of stone there.
It’s the equality, stupid
Clare Bryden. It’s the equality, stupid. Church Times, 30 July 2012.
Measures of wealth and poverty are complex and subtle; but there is one simple factor, argues Clare Bryden.
Heavitree quarries
When did the Heavitree quarries stop being worked? The old maps provide some evidence.
Mythogeography
Maybe I just wanted to be a mythogeographer when I grew up.
Quarry Lane
Seeing the stone in St Loyes Chapel made me want to walk back up Quarry Lane and look for evidence of the quarry.
St Loyes Chapel
It’s a pleasant little segment in Rifford Road, set in a garden surrounded with metal railings. There is a bus-stop in front, and it is very ease to miss St Loyes Chapel altogether if you don’t know it is there.
Maps
Once upon a time I saw a very old OS map of Exeter in the Treasures of the British Library exhibition. Now through the miracle of Google, I know that it was the Drawing for the first edition Ordnance Survey map of Exeter. 1801 Maps OSD 40.(3).
Schrödinger’s Lazarus
In Schrödinger’s famous thought experiment, there is no way of knowing the state of the system without opening the box. Hence to the outside observer the cat is both living and dead, smeared out in equal parts.
Woodwater by night
I spent a day immured in the office at the computer, feeling wintry-cold while it rained and rained. By night-time, I was completely frowstie at being stuck indoors. As the rain had pretty much dried up, I decided on some mythogeography. Going for walks at odd times, like 10.30pm, follows mythogeographical principles, after all.
In the ‘burbs
I found this marvellous book from 1892 in the Westcountry Studies Library, now Devon Archives and Local Studies.
Woodwater wander
As a birthday treat, I promised myself a walk down Woodwater Lane, from home to water to wood to home again. A satisfying experimentation in exploring the present day.
From wood to water
Yesterday, cycling down a section of Woodwater Lane, I noticed a corn cockle in the bank. It struck me that I have cycled down the lane many a time, walked down it occasionally, picked blackberries at that time of year, but I have never really paid attention to it.
Ludwell life
It was a happy accident that the house I bought when I moved to Exeter is very close to Ludwell Valley Park. It is my slice of countryside in the city, where I can wander down enclosed lanes, through fields of nodding purple grasses.
Dear Reader
I find writing a blog slightly weird. Well, not so much writing it, as thinking about who’s reading it. Something strikes me, I write a post and publish it. I’m just writing about stuff that interests me. It’s weird to think that this might interest other people as well.
Sonic branding and the Daily Office
I’ve been watching some of the highlights of the Euro2012 football tournament. The online clips, at least on the BBC website, all start with the flowery Euro2012 logo and a burst of five notes ba-da-ba-bup-ba.
A fresh way to share good ideas
Clare Bryden. A fresh way to share good ideas. Church Times, Issue 7786, 8 June 2012.
TED talks are spreading in influence. The Church can learn from them, says Clare Bryden.
The migrants’ return
This week I am happy because “my” house martins have returned. It happened on Tuesday. As I was sitting at my desk, suddenly there was a rush of gurgling and chuckling, and I looked out of my window to see madcap aerobatics.
Games people play (continued)
My post responding to Andy Robertson’s TEDxExeter talk was cut off. Here’s what I can remember of the rest.
Games people play
At TEDxExeter the talk I found the most difficult was Andy Robertson about “Sustainable Perspectives on Video Games”. But for that reason, it was the talk I thought I most had to re-watch and engage with.
Totnes, twinned with Narnia
Narnia is by no means a fairy fantasy land. CS Lewis’ stories include powerful myth, in the sense of narrative telling a deeper truth. Totnes is the cradle of the Transition movement, another powerful story.
Carbon irony
“We need to be able to see the cause of our problems in the landscapes of our lives”, because “it’s pictures that helps stories come alive”.
Science and heart
Last night, I heard Ben Bradshaw, MP for Exeter, speak about “The Church and Civil Partnerships”. He prefaced his talk with some science. But people don’t believe what they believe because of the science.
Sustainable Exeter
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: Ten challenges, which if you accomplish them, would help make Exeter a more sustainable city.
Go on
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: Volunteer your time to help some-one else get online and discover the web.
Review of “Sharing Possessions”
Clare Bryden. Review of “Sharing Possessions” by L.T.Johnson. Modern Believing, Volume 53:2, April 2012.
A voluntary for volunteering
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: “Research has shown that people who volunteer often live longer”, and here are some tips…
Harnessing crowds for energy
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: Crowd-funding targeted at community energy.
Two’s company, three’s their source of crowd-funding
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: Crowd-funding, or the ‘big society’ in action.
Streetbank-wise
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: Signing up to lending and borrowing within a local network.
Solar powered data geek
On the day that the government lost its Feed-In Tariff appeal in the Court of Appeal, the guys from Sungift Solar started to install PVs on my house.
Both a lender and a borrower be *
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: Neighbourhood sharing networks, enabling lending and borrowing of everyday objects, skills and spaces.
Sharing a lift
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: Why not share your journey to TEDxExeter, and share your hopes for the day on the way there, and what most uplifted you on the way back?
I’ll do it, but only if you do it too
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: Another website that connects people who have a desire to act.
If I ran the world…
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: More and more websites are being developed that are enabling people to share and work together. And the best are bringing people together in real life too.
Interconnected Exeter
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: Exeter’s history is threaded through with interconnections, from local to international.
Growing together, closer to home
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: There are some great community growing projects in and around Exeter.
Growing together
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: Connecting people who want to grow food but have no land with people who have land to share.
LETS do it!
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: How Local Exchange Trading Schemes can help you simplify your lifestyle, while connecting with your neighbours and local community.
Sharing stuff and working together
Written for TEDxExeter 2012 on “Sustainability and Our Interconnected World”: More and more websites are being developed that are enabling people to connect with each other. And the best are bringing people together in real life too.
Christmas Day
Evening meal; lunchtime walk around the Exminster Marshes, and the Exe Canal and Estuary around the Turf Hotel and Topsham
Reading to know we are not alone, part 2
The monastic practice of lectio divina allows us to open ourselves to God’s word. It can be loosely translated as ‘spiritual reading’, but does not just involve reading.
Reading to know we are not alone, part 1
I am pretty well read, in theory. In practice, I remember very little of what I’ve read. I read quite quickly, but even if I read slowly I still wouldn’t remember what I’ve read. Which means that I often get the pleasure of reading a good book twice, and I can appreciate the journey again.
On speed
On 29 September, Phil Hammond, the then Transport Secretary, proposed increasing the speed limit on motorways to 80mph. We may as well, mayn’t we? After all, Department for Transport figures show that as many as 49% of drivers currently flout the current 70mph limit.
The Big Society meets the Great Vowel Shift
The Tories dropped the Big Society into their 2010 Manifesto, but have never explained satisfactorily what they meant. Here are some possible interpretations…
Values going viral
People don’t make decisions based on rational assessment of facts; they make decisions according to how they fit with their values and identity. Psychologists classify values as either extrinsic, which concern status and success, or intrinsic, which concern relationships and benevolence. How can we make intrinsic values go viral?
Food #BAD11
Thoughts around the L of the LOAF principles – Local, Animal friendly, Organic, Fairtrade – and how you apply these principles when confronted by a bewildering array of choices.
Welcome to my new blog
It will probably be about things that interest me, related to my ponderings on where next… research? consultancy? kitchen gardening? writing? web design?
Listen intently and then get your hands dirty
Clare Bryden. Listen intently and then get your hands dirty. Church Times, Issue 7749, 23 September 2011.
After a year living in community at Mucknell, Clare Bryden offers a Benedictine perspective on the crisis in sustainability.
Lessons on sustainable living, with the green monks [and nuns!] of Mucknell
Clare Bryden. Lessons on sustainable living, with the green monks [and nuns!] of Mucknell. Guardian, Comment is Free: Belief, 15 September 2011.
Spending a year with Benedictine monks has taught me how to cultivate a healthy environmental idealism rooted in reality.
Sustainability at Mucknell Abbey
During 2010-11, I lived alongside Mucknell Abbey, a mixed Benedictine community in the Church of England. Early in the period, the community moved in to their new eco-monastery. I supported them in establishing a pattern of sustainable living, which included creating a series of articles and factsheets about Sustainability on their website.
Music of the stars
Forget dendrochronology, there’s a new compound -ology in town: astroseismology.
“Presence”
A poem inspired by Iona, and commended in Earthing Faith’s “Inspired by Creation” competition, October 2010.
Green, not grandiose
Clare Redfern and Clare Bryden. Green, not grandiose. Church Times, Issue 7693, 27 August 2010.
Churches should join forces with the Transition movement to promote sustainable living, say Clare Redfern and Clare Bryden.
“My soul has taken flight”
An experiment in a geo-located poem, August 2010.
Trialling an Environment Officer post in Exeter Diocese
The purpose of the project in 2009-10 was to trial an Environment Officer post in Exeter Diocese, to support church organisations in implementing recommendations of energy audits, and to undertake other activities supporting the Church of England’s Shrinking the Footprint programme.
“Waiting for the Fionnphort Bus”
Poem published in Poetry Scotland, Late Spring 2010.
Climate Change, a new prophetic ministry for Anglican Religious?
Clare Bryden. Climate Change, a new prophetic ministry for Anglican Religious? Mucknell Abbey, March 2010.
“The world’s faith communities are among the oldest and most enduring of institutions. You can, and do, inspire people to change. As we take the final steps on our journey to Copenhagen, that inspiration is critical.” — UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon.
Oh, my anguish, my anguish!
The stories coming out of Copenhagen and its aftermath led me to grieve business as usual, and start to imagine a new world.
Peer-reviewed Papers and Articles – Health
Papers and articles written as part of my work at the Met Office during 2005-07 on health forecasting and anticipatory care, and accepted by peer-review for publication.
Peer-reviewed Abstracts – Health
Abstracts written as part of my work at the Met Office during 2005-07 on health forecasting and anticipatory care, and accepted by peer-review for conference posters or talks.
Talks – Health
Talks and conference papers given as part of my work at the Met Office during 2005-07 on health forecasting and anticipatory care.
Published Reports – Weather
Reports written as part of my work at the Met Office during 2000-01 on modelling and forecasting low cloud, that were subsequently released online.
Published Reports – Economics
Reports written as a consultant at Cambridge Econometrics during 1995-2000, that were subsequently published. Variously on modelling the Chinese economy, the UK electricity supply industry, renewables and energy efficiency, and meeting climate targets.
Peer-reviewed Paper – Economics
Paper written as part of my work at Cambridge Econometrics during 1992-95 on achieving climate targets through fiscal policy, and accepted by peer-review for publication.
