On arrival guests were given a jam jar banded with coloured tape. This sense of connection and ‘ownership’ can be achieved with the simplest of ideas, one I witnessed during the evening. Stating that with regards to reintroduction and conservation projects ‘Somerset is light-years ahead in terms of how they have brought communities and science together – one simply cannot work without the other.’ Sean has nothing but praise for the collaboration between Somerset Art Works and the Great Crane Project and if he could choose just one strong message for his work to convey, it would be to highlight, to the world, what amazing work is being undertaken on our doorstep. The complete film title, Echo-Maker, is the English translation of ‘Baswenaazhi’ – the Ojibwe Indian crane clan, and refers particularly to the birds’ piercing cry, a sound now audible once more rebounding at dusk around West Sedgemoor. The first ‘chapter’ entitled Lost Land presents a sense of loss that this enigmatic bird has long been absent from Somerset.

Working closely with the community Sean is in the process of making a trio of film chapters that aim to create a greater link with those now adjusting to sharing their familiar landscape with the Common Crane. Sean explained that he was keen to set up his transient film rig in locations where the custodians of the land had imaginatively reinvented their relationship and use of the environment to maintain a sustainable future for both, and Thorney Lakes certainly fulfilled that desire.

The event was staged at Thorney Lakes, near Mucheleny, a family run campsite with a huge emphasis placed on creating a haven for wildlife. Last Saturday I caught up with Sean in the wilds of The Somerset Levels to see the first showing, and first instalment of his new film commissioned especially for Somerset Art Work’s ongoing Cranes and Communities project. However, as darkness descends its true potential is gently released in the form of light and animation, sending forth multiple images and echoes into the night. When first encountered his curious, conical contraption could be viewed purely as a sculpture set within the landscape. These dark November days are just perfect for artist Sean Harris and his travelling art and landscape project: Echo-Maker Sean Harris, Echo-Maker, Cranes and Communities project Photo: Davina Jelley

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