A MAJOR new arts programme inspired by the canals and salt heritage of Droitwich is set to be a cultural first for the county.
The Ring, a year-long project running from September, will showcase a series of inspiring artworks, events and activities from five international and regional artists which will explore the heritage and ecology of Worcestershire’s waterways.
The dynamic contemporary arts public programme, supported by the Canal and River Trust, will be launched in April 2018.
Audiences will see the creations along the Worcester and Birmingham Canals, the Droitwich Canals and the River Severn.
After 75 years, the Droitwich Canals were restored, resulting in the reconnection of the Mid-Worcestershire Ring in 2011, a 21-mile route, joining Droitwich to the River Severn and from there the open sea.
The restoration involved decades of hard work in which 300,000 tonnes of mud were shifted by volunteers and canal workers.
Today the waterway is a thriving boating route and a peaceful retreat for the local community and wildlife.
Two of the five commissions will be a piece of artwork by Brighton-based interdisciplinary artist Katy Beinart which will work to engage a wide audience in the unique salt heritage of Droitwich and help to impart the significance of this historical waterway.
Another will be a series of songs and poems by Kidderminster-poet Heather Wastie about the modern day heroes who helped restore the Droitwich canals.
Cathy Mager, The Ring’s artistic director, said: “We’re thrilled and inspired by the ideas of our growing collective of artists, performers, filmmakers and writers who are working in a variety of ways to re-imagine the waterways of Worcestershire.
“The Ring’s new events and commissions will flow through 21 miles of contrasting landscapes, from the calm and sleepy suburban canals to fast flowing tidal rivers, through to busy historic city centres and to picturesque countryside.”
Contact The Ring project team on [email protected] for more information.
