Stanmer Speaking
THREADS THAT WEAVE AND FRAY...
The very many voices that make up this unique park came together interweaving and dissecting an idea of what our public space is for.
Trees with roots that reach deep into this rich site offered the voices of those who tread, rest upon and toil its soil.
Following initial research and development workshops with community groups in and around Stanmer in Sussex, including Coldean and Moulsecombe primary schools, Brighton Aldridge Community Academy, Sussex University and the University of Brighton, we worked with the Centre for Life History and Research at Sussex, and with the Centre for Research in Memory, Narrative and Histories, and with local people to hear their thoughts, memories and stories.
We then commissioned Sound Artist, Thor McBurnie, to use the research and oral histories to create a site specific installation in Stanmer Churchyard.
Audiences were invited to listen to stories being retold through giant seedpods with the ancient yew trees…
Supported by Arts Council England, Brighton and Hove Council and Stanmer Preservation Society.