Human-Nature | British Council

Human-Nature is a collaborative knowledge exchange programme aimed at creating a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Human-Nature is a collaborative programme aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the human relationship to nature and each other, for a more inclusive and sustainable future. It supports UK and Malaysian arts practitioners, communities, scientists, and academics to exchange knowledge, collaborate, conduct research, and develop creative responses to climate action.

The programme, aims to:

Help us understand the narratives that have shaped our relationship with Nature and with each other.
Foster partnerships between communities, arts practitioners, scientists, and academia to embed arts and creative responses.
Support the development of research and insights on collaborative and creative responses for climate adaptation.
Elevate local Malaysian voices to share insights, knowledge, and best practices around sustainable and alternative futures.

"Indigenous knowledge is the accumulated knowledge, beliefs, and practices of native communities around the world, gained from centuries of living in close proximity to nature. It includes a vast array of knowledge systems, ranging from agricultural practices and medicinal plants to spiritual beliefs and traditional storytelling. This knowledge is not only valuable in its own right but has the potential to offer vital insights into contemporary global challenges. However, despite its value, much of this knowledge is at risk of being lost as indigenous communities face rapid modernization, globalization, and climate change. It is, therefore, crucial to preserve and promote indigenous knowledge to ensure its continued transmission to future generations and its potential application in modern society.” The Tuyang Initiative, a community-led arts management company from Miri, Sarawak.

How will Human-Nature be delivered?

The programme will support artists, cultural practitioners, and underrepresented groups to utilise the value of arts and culture to address social and environmental challenges – creating a more inclusive and sustainable future. At the heart of the programme are people and communities, aiming to develop long-lasting, equitable and mutually respectful relationships that are initiated locally.

Register your interest

If you are interested in learning more and joining discussions on the Human-Nature programme, contact Florence.Lambert@britishcouncil.org.

What is part of the Human-Nature programme?

Human-Nature: Alternative Narratives Creative Collaboration Grants

Grants supporting new UK–Malaysia creative collaborations to develop creative responses to climate adaptation. Apply by 11 Jan 2025.

Open Call for Exhibition Proposals – Shape the British Pavilion at Venice Architecture Biennale 2027

Open call for UK-Malaysia collaborative exhibition proposals for the British Council Commission at the Venice Architecture Biennale.

Human-Nature: Relations, Resilience, Reciprocity

Research on creative collaboration with communities in Malaysia through ethical, inclusive, and sustainable approaches to climate action.

Human-Nature: Time of the Rivers Fellowship

Meet the fellows and mentors of the Human-Nature: Time of the Rivers Fellowship.

Community Engagement Guide – Aram Bekelala

A guide offering approaches to working with communities in Malaysia, with a focus on Indigenous and marginalised groups.

Human-Nature Delegation

UK artists and creative professionals took part in a delegation to Malaysia, aiming to foster collaborations with Malaysian counterparts.