The resulting book called Forty Farms depicts rural life in Cumbria before it is transformed beyond all recognition. Amy travels across the county, from Herdwick-grazed Lake District commons to the open expanses of the Solway marshes; from isolated farmsteads unchanged for generations to businesses leading the charge in innovation and sustainable farming; from world-class sheep breeders to award-winning food producers, creating a visual record of farming during what is a period of profound change.
The book reveals frank conversations about the financial challenges experienced by upland farmers; the tightrope balance of producing quality food in nature-rich protected landscapes; and the highs and lows of working in an area internationally famed for its beauty.
Forty Farms offers a unique insight into the hopes, fears and everyday lives of 40 extraordinary farmers across Cumbria.
The 336-page hardcover book priced at £29.90 is now available to buy either from the Herdwick Cafe, Coniston, in person when you visit Yew Tree Farm or online from https://www.inspiredbylakeland.co.uk/
Images from the book also form the basis for a major FREE exhibition in the Gallery at Rheged, Penrith, which runs until 04th January 2023. The exhibition is also supported by a Forty Farms Festival of talks, debates, films and creative classes, which will run from September-December, a full programme diary of events can be found at www.rheged.com