Trails, Pales and Centenary Tales – Artworks
Digital versions of all five artowrks will be available following the official launch of Trails, Pales and Centenary Tales on Tuesday 18 August.
‘Custodians – Always on the Grift’
Sound Installation by Anne Louise Kershaw
Worsley Old Hall, Worsley Park
I spent lovely times at Worsley Old Hall chatting, listening and capturing sounds. I wanted to create a sonic web, weaving together the story of the people, the place, and its past. People, disparate yet connected by frequenting the hall for some cheer. A building, steeped in history, standing strong through tumultuous times, holding on so others might too, through their visit. And the beautiful grounds, lovingly cared for and wild with the nature of itself. A poignant metaphor for the hall and characterful custodians of it. Whether fleeting or long-standing, all protecting something valuable; be that time together, or the pub itself – without which this magic would not exist.
‘An Ode to the Patrons’
Film Installation by Dean Brocklehurst
Worsley Stores, Barton RoadMy film focusses on the people of Worsley Stores. The bar is small but bustling with people, chatter and positive energy. I wanted to document and honour the friendships and loving banter within the groups. I decided to slow down every shot to capture the glances and laughs whilst we hear the stories almost as if we’re just passing their table on the way to the bar. I love those moments of natural expression and wanted to capture their intimacy. I have also used archive footage of Hanky Park in Salford as 10 pubs are about to be demolished highlighting the timeless importance public houses have on our communities still today.
‘The Queen’s Arms in The Queen’s Arms’
Interactive Sculpture by Traë England-Shortt
Queens Arms, Green Lane
I have created this artwork for the Queen’s Arms. I spent a weekend in the pub, chatting to people and gathering real stories. I wanted to create a piece that celebrates their community, their history, and something they could be a part of. I have chosen to make it interactive so the stories could continue to build and give the artwork a lasting life. There is also an addition to the toby jug collection! Can you find it?
‘Oats and Honey’
Text and heritage pamphlet by Greg Thorpe
Oats and Honey, Monton Road
As a writer and heritage researcher, I wanted my piece to bring together voices of contemporary Salfordians with elements of Monton’s past. I spoke with some of the patrons of Oats and Honey and delved into the history of the building to produce this pamphlet of words and images. Hopefully the readers of my work will feel connected to their predecessors and everyone will learn something about each other as the City of Salford officially turns 100.
See my online version of the pamphlet here.
‘Where Everybody Knows Your Name’
Animation & Stills by Harri Shanahan
Wandering Palate, Monton Road
I spent a weekend at the Wandering Palate with my sound recorder, chatting with staff and patrons. From these sound recordings I have created a short collection of anecdotes and impressions which I felt captured the atmosphere of this unique venue and its Monton location. I’ve used these stories and reflections to create a short, lighthearted animation which hopefully reflects the warm, supportive and fun-loving community which has grown up around the Wandering Palate in its first five years. The animation mixes traditional and cut-out styles with digital painting and collage, and can be viewed on Instigate Arts’ website whilst on display here are three stills from the film.
Instigate Arts 