The focus of our enquiry is microfossils, markers of huge climate changes, which comprise the limestones and shales along the local coastline. As these come into being, evolve and become extinct, we see the changing climate in their shapes. In turn plankton are part of the macro-shape of the coastline, part of the story that determines which rocks are hard and will resist erosion, which will collapse into bays and valleys. The consideration of shapes on different scales, as meaningful markers in the landscape is therefore key to the direction of the project.I am now working with two scientists, Sam Gibbs, a micropalentologist from Southampton oceanographic centre and mathematician Bjorn Stanstede from the University of Surrey. With them, I am meeting regularly with a small group from the local community to explore specific points in the local area nominated by the group members. These points in the landscape are gateways into considering the significance of the geology along the Jurassic Coast.

This process, unfolding over the next five weeks before going into production, will result in an exhibition of work over July and August in the front room of Durlston castle (open 12th July - 29th August 1pm - 4pm). This work will be a large-scale sculpture built from recycled materials. This material decision puts the changed power dynamic between homosapiens and the natural environment centre-stage, reminding us that whole landscapes are now created by landfill.

A ‘blog’ and website will be part of the exhibition package, allowing further access to information for viewers. The ‘blog’ will be built upon contributions from the local group, educational groups, myself and the two scientists. During the exhibition there will be opportunity for viewers to comment and these can also be added to the informal, ‘blog’ part of the site."