Lancaster University is all set to host a special event exploring how data shapes our relationship with place, environment, and the future

The University’s School of Arts and the Future Places Centre, a hub for experimental research into data, design, and environmental futures, presents ‘Cultivating Data Natures’ on Wednesday, 9 July, a free public event at the Nuffield Theatre on campus.

Cultivating Data Natures brings together internationally renowned contributors in a lively setting for an evening of art, performance and talks.

The theme of cultivation runs throughout the evening as a research and innovation method.

Globally recognised voices include Jonathan Gray, BRiGHTBLACK, and Abelardo Gil-Fournier and Jussi Parikka.

The event marks the culmination of the Future Places Centre, Lancaster’s hub for experimental research into data, design, and environmental futures.

Through talks, performance, and film, the evening will examine themes of cultivation, care, and speculation in a time of ecological transformation.

Highlights include a preview of Jonathan Gray’s forthcoming book Public Data Cultures, a speculative AI-led performance lecture by BRiGHTBLACK, and the film LUMI, a meditative video essay on landscape and machine vision.

Presented in partnership with Abandon Normal Devices, Deco Publique, and Lancaster Arts, the event invites audiences to imagine more just and sustainable data futures.

Registration is free but essential via the Eventbrite website.