New in Field Notes: So This Is The North? by Clara Arnaud

The second instalment of French author Clara Arnaud’s three-part essay series is now available in our Field Notes section.

Titled So This Is The North?, the piece follows Clara’s journey across the Barents Sea aboard the sailing ship Linden, describing the practical challenges and shifting conditions during the crossing — from storm preparation and seasickness to ice watches and changing weather. Written during her journey to Longyearbyen, the essay offers a detailed account of daily life on board and the transition from mainland Europe to the high Arctic.

“The sea isn’t blue. It’s silver, black, grey, green, orange, white—and iridescent, two days later, it turns to glass.”

The series is part of our new Field Notes platform, which shares reflections, observations, and recommendations from Artica residents and network members.

🔗 Read So This Is The North? here.