Located on the west coast of Scotland, Eigg is a small island in the Inner Hebrides. 20 years ago the inhabitants made themselves famous by buying their pretty rock. Today, they are self-sufficient in electricity and have created a model of citizen self-management. Tired of the succession of landlords with multiple promises but no concrete effects, the inhabitants of Eigg succeeded, thanks to various funding and a beautiful story, in becoming owners of their island. This takeover allowed the islanders to regain control of the island’s destiny. For 20 years they have successfully established an original model of self-management and development. They meet regularly to decide together on future directions for Eigg. One of the first works of the community was the construction of a pier finally allowing to connect the island to the rest of the country and to favor its development. The question of energy autonomy then quickly arose. In 2008, the inhabitants achieved a world first: the island had its own autonomous network combining solar, wind and hydroelectric energies in an innovative system. Today the community is made up of people of different ages, backgrounds and origins, all of whom share a certain love for the island. All these little people (105 people today) spread out along the only road on the island. Thus scattered we find dwellings of all kinds in adequacy with the way of life of everyone. Today can be found a Brasserie, tourist facilities, basketry, music festivals, artistic residences, organic caterers, etc… Eigg has just celebrated its 20 years of self-management this year with very positive results. “I was well integrated into the community. I tinkered with them, I fished, and I learned to shear sheep. This photographic work dwells on this small society and tries to restore the atmosphere of the place through its inhabitants.
Saison Photo de l’Epau 2022
Until November 6th, 2022
Abbaye Royale de l’Epau
Route de Changé
72530 Yvré l’Evêque
0243842229
https://epau.sarthe.fr/
