Kat Wood's work delves into the political history and cultural dynamics of rural communities, particularly emphasising their deep connections to the natural environment. She explores the interwoven narratives that shape rural identities, traditions, and everyday life through a mixture of research and artistic practice.
Farming and shepherding, especially in hill farming regions, are seen not merely as occupations but as acts of cultural and environmental engagement, constantly adapting to local and global pressures. Through her photographic books, installations, and collaborative projects, she sheds light on the resilience, creativity, and profound bond farmers share with the land.
Having grown up on a hill farm in the north of England, Wood's practice aims to give voice to the many farms that struggle to survive without government subsidies, highlighting how the rise of factory farming, high costs of land and machinery, and unstable incomes render farming financially precarious. Many farmers rely on universal income or secondary employment to sustain their livelihoods.
Wood's work focuses on these rural stories, advocating for policies that support the sustainability and long-term autonomy of farming communities. Through the WAVY WOOL CLUB, she bridges the gap between urban and rural communities by sharing traditional skills with urban audiences, revealing the challenges farmers face, and creating additional income streams for farmers while fostering a direct connection between these two worlds.
