Image of a geiger counter, (a small device similar in design to a portable radio), placed on the sand in front of large rocks.
Image of a geiger counter, courtesy of Hadrian Pigott, 2025.
Image of a man called MacKenna gold-panning in the Caucasus, courtesy Philip Marsden, 2025.
Image of Philip Marsden near St Agnes, courtesy Philip Marsden, 2025.

Philip Marsden’s new book, Under a Metal Sky, explores how the discovery of minerals has transformed our species. Beginning and ending in Cornwall, the book follows his journey across Europe, examining peat extraction in the Netherlands, iron-rich meteorites along the Rhine, and gold in the mountains of Georgia. Along the way, Marsden reflects on the links between rocks and ecology, between metals and the imagination, presenting a new perspective on European history and on our complex relationship with the natural world.

Marsden will be introduced by artist Hadrian Pigott and the evening will include readings from the book. Philip Marsden is an award-winning author of many works of travel writing and other non-fiction, including The Summer IslesRising Ground and The Levelling Sea.

Penzance-based artist Hadrian Pigott trained as a geologist and worked on oil rigs before leaving the oil industry to study at the Royal College of Art, graduating with an MA from the sculpture department in 1993. In 2012 he researched and developed The Penzance Convention, reflecting on the theme of extraction.

The Bookshop in Helston will set up at CAST for the evening, with copies of the book for sale and with space for book signing.

Thursday 27 February 2025 CAST Café Supper from 6pm, followed by the talk

Tickets from £15, booking essential

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