CoastARTS Norway focuses on eco-cultural crises along the west coast of Sábme, the Lule Sami language term for traditional Indigenous territories in northern Norway. Here, bird populations are declining due to salmon farming, energy production, tourism, climate change and avian flu.
The project draws on posthuman and new materialist theories to investigate human–bird relationships and their role in shaping environmental heritage and eco-cultural identity.
A key project element is site-specific creative research involving collaborations with local communities, artists, schools and experts between Trondheim (Tråante in Southern Sami language) and Bodø (Bådåddjo in Lule Sami).
We aim to foster interspecies solidarity and environmental awareness as part of ecocultural identity. Emphasizing emotional and embodied connections between humans and birds, the project uses discursive and artistic methods anchored in material practice to engage local coastal people in critical reflection on ecological challenges.
Ultimately, this practice-led research seeks to inspire dialogue, encourage environmental stewardship and support the resilience of both coastal communities and avian life amidst growing environmental pressures.
