Me and the Sun

Participatory Research Event with Keele University

Me and the Sun was a creative, drop-in research event exploring personal relationships with sunlight. Hosted at The Moony Club in Longton and led by Urban Wilderness CIC, the workshop formed part of Keele University historian Dr Ben Anderson’s emerging research into the cultural, medical and environmental histories of ultraviolet light.

The event created a relaxed, playful “holiday zone” using deckchairs, blankets, mocktails, hot drinks and postcard writing prompts. This familiar setting encouraged informal conversations about sunshine, touching on health, migration, climate, family habits, skin tone and wellbeing. Participants’ reflections will help shape the next phase of Ben Anderson’s project, Sunburn: Ultraviolet and Bodies of Environmental Crisis after 1975, and support future funding bids.

Two commissioned artworks deepened discussion. Spoken word artist Gabriella Gay performed I Asked the Birds How to Act in the Sun, a poem exploring intergenerational knowledge, migration and cultural attitudes to sun and protection. Portrait studies by Daby Obiechefu invited reflection on skin, exposure and care across different bodies and histories.

Across the afternoon, participants shared insights into sun safety education, conflicting health messages, Vitamin D, skin cancer, representation in public guidance, and the emotional effects of sunlight. These lived experiences contribute to a more inclusive understanding of UV exposure rooted in community knowledge.

Research Lead: Dr Ben Anderson, Keele University
Creative Delivery: Urban Wilderness CIC
Spoken Word: Gabriella Gay
Visual Art: Daby Obiechefu
Host Venue: The Moony Club CIC