What is The Elemen’Terre Project?
The Elemen’Terre Project is a unique and inspiring initiative born in 2017 under the Elemen’Terre Project association, which is recognized as being of general interest. At its core, it’s a floating think tank dedicated to reconnecting humans with their natural roots and raising awareness about the major environmental and societal challenges of our time. The project uses Pen-Duick VI, a historic sailing vessel, as its flagship—a traveling residence that sails around the world, serving as a place for meeting, reflection, and sharing ideas aimed at fostering a common well-being. It’s not just about sailing; it’s about creating balanced relationships with the environment and reinforcing humanistic values through a journey that’s as much about the soul as it is about the sea.
Main Benefits and Key Facts
The Elemen’Terre Project offers a rich blend of adventure, culture, and environmental consciousness. Here are some key highlights:
- Founded in 2017, with activities planned from 2018 to 2021.
- Pen-Duick VI serves as a mobile hub for reflection and cultural exchange.
- Combines long-distance sailing with interviews, round tables, conferences, and performances.
- Each episode features two personalities—a unique pairing of one artist and one athlete—joining Marie Tabarly to explore different places and perspectives.
- Aims to raise public awareness about humanity’s major challenges and promote a network of shared values.
- Focuses on reconnecting people with nature through arts, outdoor sports, and soul-searching journeys.
- Encourages learning experiences both individually and collectively, blending sport, culture, and science.
A Journey of Discovery and Connection
At its heart, the Elemen’Terre Project is about discovery—discovering the beauty of nature, the power of sport, and the depth of human experience. Each episode takes viewers and participants to a different corner of the planet, offering fresh insights through the eyes of an artist and an athlete alongside Marie Tabarly. This dynamic trio shares their unique sensitivities and worldviews, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives that invite everyone to reflect on their own connection to nature and humanity. It’s a journey that’s as much about inner exploration as it is about external adventure.
Changing Perspectives Through Art and Sport
The project’s innovative approach blends the physicality of outdoor sports with the emotional and intellectual power of the arts. By doing so, it taps into the elemental forces of nature and human creativity. This combination helps participants and audiences alike to see the world differently—to appreciate the environment not just as a backdrop, but as a living, breathing partner in our shared journey. It’s about harnessing nature’s power and using it as a source of inspiration and learning, pushing boundaries both physically and mentally.
Seasonal Themes and Evolving Approaches
The Elemen’Terre Project adapts its approach depending on the season and the theme at hand. Whether it’s long-distance sailing, hosting interviews, organizing round tables, or staging performances and conferences, the project remains flexible and responsive. This seasonal variation keeps the initiative fresh and engaging, while always staying true to its four core objectives: participating in the development of common well-being, highlighting humanity’s major challenges, reconnecting with our natures, and creating a network of values. It’s a living project, evolving with time and experience.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – promoting mental and physical health through outdoor activities and reflection.
- SDG 4: Quality Education – fostering learning experiences about nature, culture, and society.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – raising awareness about environmental challenges and encouraging sustainable practices.
- SDG 14: Life Below Water – protecting maritime heritage and promoting ocean conservation.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – building a network of values and collaboration among diverse communities.
A Global Ambition Rooted in Human Experience
The Elemen’Terre Project isn’t just a local or regional initiative—it has global ambitions. It seeks to capture elements of a unique human experience by traveling the world and engaging with different cultures, environments, and ideas. Marie Tabarly’s vision is clear: the journey is a learning experience, both for herself and for everyone involved. It’s about setting new goals, opening minds, and deepening understanding of human nature through the lens of sport, art, and nature. In a world that often feels disconnected, the Elemen’Terre Project offers a refreshing reminder of what it means to be truly connected—to ourselves, to each other, and to the planet we call home.
