Feel Inspired
Cultural Associations in the Dorset AONB
Over the centuries, Dorset's landscapes have inspired poets, authors, scientists and artists, many of whom have left a rich legacy of cultural associations.
The best known of these is Thomas Hardy whose wonderfully evocative descriptions bring an extra dimension and depth of understanding to our appreciation of the Dorset landscape. Other literary figures inspired by Dorset's landscapes include William Barnes, Jane Austen, John Fowles and Kenneth Allsop.
Turner, Constable and Paul Nash are just a few of the many artists associated with Dorset, while Gustav Holst captured the character of the Dorset heathlands in his work ‘Egdon Heath'. Such cultural associations, both past, present and future, offer a source of inspiration to us all and may help develop new ways of understanding the AONB.
We have recently commissioned a report to examine the cultural legacy of artists working in Dorset from 1800 to 1960, and how their work may provide evidence of landscape change.
The report is available to download, and may lead us to further work and studies to explore the landscape of the Dorset AONB in the footsteps of others.
Cultural Associations continue to be the inspiration for artists, writers and events today. Check out the events listing for any art and craft inspired events to take part in.
