About Us.
Why are we doing this?
We care about these places and want to leave an artistic record of what we encounter. We want people who use these spaces – and artists who are inspired by them – to come together and influence the future of BACKLANDS.
Why do we find these places inspiring?
BACKLANDS landscapes are always surprising. It’s something about their scale and their isolated, hidden nature that makes them unique. Somewhere so surprising and unique is somewhere that’s bound to be inspiring.
What do we like to do in BACKLANDS?
Walking, cycling, exploring and discovering, or just sitting and thinking. It’s an escape to another place. An empty landscape where you can empty your mind.
John Skinner
Professional artist, now specialising in eco-friendly arts at Voyage Fair Trade Studios in Devon. John has worked for Disney and illustrated children's books for Garden Studios London and Andre Deutsch publishers.
Anthony Wong
Anthony, a multi-disciplinary artist at Bluecoat, Liverpool, earned his MA from the Royal College of Art and expanded his practice to include his original passions: photography, installation, and poetry.
John Ludlam
John is a writer, filmmaker and audio enthusiast, with decades of storytelling experience. His career includes extensive experience as a Reuters journalist and independent creative consultant.
Ian McCarthy
City planner, based in North West England, committed to creating vibrant, viable and inclusive places. A trustee of the Liverpool Biennial Contemporary Arts Festival and Shakespeare North Playhouse.