Young people have teamed up with an acclaimed artist and a rapper as part of a £2 million ground-breaking national art project.

The Forest of Bowland National Landscape is to feature as a major hub as part of Nature Calling.

Working with writer, rapper and performer OneDa, and artist Rob St John, the National Landscape team will engage with young people from Burnley and Nelson to collaborate, explore, and connect with nature.

Nature Calling aims to inspire communities across England to connect with National Landscapes, 'increasing their access to nature, improving their wellbeing and inspiring a sense of belonging in these special places'.

Rapper OneDa is a commissioned writer for the Forest of Bowland National Landscape.

One Da said: “When I saw Nature Calling advertised I leapt at the chance to be directly inspired by a natural environment that has depths of beauty to explore.

"An earlier trip to Greenland took me to a place where the natural beauty was overwhelming yet so inspiring.

"I aim to combine my passion, talent and my creative outlook to explore the Forest of Bowland in a new way.”

Chief executive of the National Landscapes Association, John Watkins, said: “The great thing about Nature Calling is that it’s a chance for new voices to interpret the National Landscapes of England in new ways. 

"Arts Council England and Defra funding means we can deliver our first all-England arts programme with six National Landscape teams working with artists to celebrate these iconic places with a season of events in 2025.”

Chief executive of Arts Council England, Darren Henley, added: “Throughout time, our greatest artists have been inspired by England’s wonderful landscape. 

"Now, we’re supporting a new generation of artists to bring to life their own awe-inspiring work in response to our natural environment. I’m excited to see what they will create.”

Nature Calling is a partnership project between the National Landscapes Association, Activate Performing Arts, Poetry School and six National Landscapes that will operate as key hubs of activity.