*NEW DATES ADDED* ISLANDNESS GATHERING: Late Summer Edition, Isle of Ulva

24th - 28th September, Isle of Ulva

Following the interest in the May/June gathering, I’ve added a second date.

There are 2 male bunks (£650) and 1 couple’s room (£725pp) or single occupancy (£800) available, however more spaces may come up, so if you want to be added to the waitlist, let me know.

If you would like to join us, please send a short application by Friday 27th March (details via webpage).

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Join me for an intimate gathering on the Hebridean island of Ulva to explore ‘islandness’ in a convivial setting that combines elements of a residency, workshop, and shoreside philosophical salon.

This gathering will be a chance to come together with fellow isle-o-philes, immersing in the elemental archipelagic land- and seascape, encountering its many creatures, its geological, archaeological, and cultural (living) histories, and the elusive spirit that makes up islandness.

Islands reveal truths about the human condition. Known as ‘thin places’ because they straddle the phenomenal and noumenal worlds, islands can be crucibles for the spirit as well as deeply practical and unsentimental places. Places of paradox, they can be ‘eco’ and fossil fuel intensive, resilient and vulnerable, isolated and connected. Their natural limits offer valuable lessons in these times of extractivism, and as ‘canaries in the coalmine’, they uncover vital information about incipient cultural and climate change.

An island, especially a small island, does something to a person. It is this transformation, this mingling between a person and a place that fascinates me. I hope it fascinates you.

What, then, is islandness? And why are we so drawn to islands, what forces lie at the root of their compelling dream-like attraction?

What to expect:

- Stay in Ardalum House on the edge of Ulva’s woodland
- Sailing among the Mull archipelago onboard Birthe Marie
- Tour Ulva’s archaeological bounty with guide Andrew Primrose
- Sauna and fireside conversation
- Dinner with drinks at The Boathouse
- Time for dawn walks, sea swimming, foraging, skill-sharing

For more information, head to: hannahlclose.com/islandness-gathering