Reading landscape involves attentively observing and interacting with the natural environment to gather knowledge for permaculture design.
Learning from Indigenous cultures can offer valuable insights into understanding and engaging with the landscape.
Deep dives
The Origins of the Film 'Reading Landscape'
The film 'Reading Landscape' originated from a permaculture design project involving David Holmgren and colleague Dan Palmer. Palmer, inspired by Holmgren's expertise in reading the landscape, proposed recording Holmgren's interpretations. The project grew organically, involving filmmaker Dave Mahr and gradually incorporating other people. The film aims to communicate the fundamental skill of reading landscape for permaculture design and the innate ability humans have to connect with and understand their environment.
The Importance of Reading Landscape
Reading landscape involves slowing down, being in place, and developing an intimate understanding of the land. It is about attentively observing, exploring, and interacting with the natural environment to gather knowledge about the geology, weather patterns, and other features. Connecting with the landscape as a baby and child, without specific goals or preconceptions, allows for a deep understanding and intuitive responses to the environment. The process of reading landscape is crucial in permaculture design and can be cultivated through practical engagement with nature, gardening, and being dependent on weather patterns.
Connecting with Indigenous Perspectives
The film highlights the importance of learning from Indigenous cultures and their deep connection to the land. Indigenous knowledge and practices offer valuable insights into understanding and engaging with the landscape. By recognizing and respecting Indigenous perspectives on country, settler peoples can rekindle their own direct experiences and develop a more holistic understanding of landscape and community.
Affordability, Mistakes, and Reading Landscape
The concept of affordability in relation to property ownership is discussed. While property affordability may limit certain options, the ability to read landscape and connect with a wider landscape is emphasized. By homing in on specific places, engaging with local communities, and observing patterns, individuals can find affordable opportunities, even in economically disadvantaged areas. The film encourages the recognition of broader landscapes and the development of skills to navigate changing affordability patterns. Additionally, the film reminds viewers of the importance of learning from mistakes, maintaining a flexible mindset, and continuously deepening their understanding of landscape.
Legendary co-originator of permaculture, David Holmgren, returns to the show this week on the ery special occasion of the launch of the feature-length documentary, Reading Landscape.
In the show notes below, you will find the link and the password to watch the full documentary for free.
Please share it widely with anyone who may be interested, with the blessing of the producers.
David and I discuss
The development of the film
What is meant by 'landscape'
What is meant by 'reading'
What has changed in permaculture over the decades
Learning from Indigenous teachers in Australia and New Zealand
And a whole lot more. It was a personal pleasure to be involved in the financing of this film as an individual and during my tenure at Permaculture Tasmania.
