Fine Arts students took inspiration from landscapes surrounding the Wherry Lines railway thanks to a collaboration between Norwich University of the Arts (NUA), The Wherry Lines Community Rail Partnership and the Water, Mills and Marshes Landscape Partnership Scheme, led by the Broads Authority. Five students from NUA travelled by train from Norwich to Berney Arms for a walk around Halvergate marshes to see the Halvergate Mills trail which is currently in development by the Water, Mills and Marshes team. Berney Arms is the region’s smallest and least-used station offering access to a unique landscape of marshes, windmills and grazing animals that offers many beautiful walks. Wherry Lines Ranger tickets were provided by the Wherry Lines Community Rail Partnership to enable to students to reach the station, which is only accessible by foot, boat or train. For the students, the trip was an opportunity to discover how art and the community can collaborate together on projects and also find inspiration from the surroundings. Martin Halliday, of the Wherry Lines Community Rail Partnership, said, “We were delighted to support the work of Norwich University of the Arts and their students to come and see the stunning scenery that is so easily accessible by train from Norwich. “It’s a short journey but you feel a world away and I hope that in turn, the students’ artworks will encourage even more people to take advantage of the great value Wherry Lines Ranger tickets and come and see these unique landscapes for themselves.” Roisin Delaney, Intern Water, Mills & Marshes, said, “The walk aimed to inspire and provide students with the opportunity to step outside their usual surroundings, exploring the environments and communities they are a part of during their studies. “I’m pleased to see that the students found stimulation and a sense of peace during the walk; giving them a thoughtful break from their studies.” Andrew Farrell, Programme Manager Water, Mills & Marshes, said, “The Wherry Lines are a vital part of the Broads and have been for more than 175 years. “We are grateful for the support offered by the Community Rail Partnership and the National Lottery Heritage Fund to show these students that this gorgeous, world-renowned wetland is so easily accessed by the railway. “We hope that they continue to be inspired by this unique landscape and that more people will leave their car at home and take the train to visit the Broads National Park and all that it has to offer.”
