Topologies of Air/Ruith na Gaoithe

Topologies of Air/Ruith na Gaoithe explores ecological, cultural, social, military and historical perception and definition of ‘air space’ in the north Atlantic in the context of the proposed development of the Outer Hebrides as an ‘eco – energy’ producer. The transformation of natural phenomena such as wind energy into a significant economic resource and the impact this has on the perceptual mapping of the Outer Hebrides is explored through the development of a new approach to the multi-layered spatial mapping of place in which cultural, social, economic and scientific languages, stories, songs, poetry and mapping processes intersect in a series of photo-text works.

This research through practice project draws on interdisciplinary research undertaken in dialogue with paleo-ecologist Professor Anson Mackay and cultural geographer Dr Issie MacPhail, and on field research undertaken in the Outer Hebrides during a five week research residency at Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum and Arts Centre, North Uist, in 2012. This included undertaking research in Council archives, Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum archives and the Scottish Screen archives (Glasgow), and extensive interviews and recording of Gaelic song and poetry.