From a woodland music trail to forest myth making – Arts Grants 2025 projects announced

The Arts Grants programme provides funding for artists, arts organisations, and community groups based in the National Forest or with strong ties to the Forest. Applicants were invited to propose projects inspired by the Forest, exploring themes such as health and wellbeing, sustainability, circular economy, climate action, and sense of place. 

Jo Maker, Arts and Creativity Manager at the National Forest, said: 

"This year feels particularly significant as it's the fifth year that we have awarded Arts Grants. Once these projects have completed, we will have supported thirty creative initiatives through this funding opportunity. 

This year's programme continues to offer intriguing and unique perspectives on the Forest, taking inspiration from its story and landscape to connect people with what the Forest offers and celebrating the benefits of combining creativity and nature." 

Engaging the younger generation with nature is a key focus for many of this year's selected projects, encouraging children and young people to explore local woodlands through cultural activities that promote play, learning, and a deeper appreciation of these vital green spaces.   

The six grant recipients and their projects are:  

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Urban Wilderness CIC – Living Mythologies  

An immersive project for young people in Burton and East Staffordshire, designed to deepen connections to nature through storytelling, art, and ecological awareness. Interactive workshops featuring storytelling, shadow photography, and banner making will culminate in a seasonal community celebration, building a shared mythology and sustainable approach to creativity.  

Musicworks – Musicwalks  

A sound trail featuring live instrumental performances throughout the woodlands at Beacon Hill in Charnwood. This project explores how music can heighten engagement with our surroundings and can deepen our appreciation and connection to a place.  

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Sasha Archer – Reconnecting with the Land  

A unique programme of creative activities engaging participants with the wisdom and cycles of the seasons. Combining Sasha's background as a footwear designer, potter, and design technician with her interest in animism and folklore, the project aims to connect people to the land around them.  

Babbling Vagabonds – The Lost Tales of Rosliston  

A magical story trail developed for Rosliston Forestry Centre, featuring new narratives co-created with local schools and families. The stories will weave together ideas from participants into meaningful tales rooted in the woods, meadows, and wildlife of the site.  

Walking Forest – Walking Forest Creative Camp  

A one-day immersive creative camp for women, taking place in Charnwood Forest to connect, co-create, and reflect on our relationship with woods, trees, and the wider natural world. The event will share stories of courage and community, learning from natural forest systems, and provide creative, reflective activities.  

Soft Touch – Nature Connection and Wellbeing Days  

A series of nature-based creative wellbeing days for young people aged 16 to 25 years. Activities will include forest bathing, meditation, and nature walks, culminating in the creation of a communal willow artwork to be presented in Leicester at Soft Touch's Eco Festival in July. 

These exciting projects will take place throughout the spring and summer, offering enriching experiences that celebrate the powerful intersection of creativity and nature. Stay tuned for updates and opportunities to get involved. 

For more information about upcoming events, visit our website and follow us on social media. 

If you'd like to help us continue to support cultural and community focused projects in the National Forest, then please consider donating.