A SCULPTURE based on the old ‘salt works’ of Droitwich and filled with salt from all over the world will be on display at this year’s Salt Fest.
Artist Katy Beinart, the mastermind behind the sculpture called ‘Saltways’, wanted to put together something that celebrated Worcestershire’s salt trade.
In May Katy travelled by boat from Gloucester Docks to Droitwich, bringing her pavilion sculpture with her.
She filled it up with salt from Bolivia, Turkey, South Africa and also locally-produced salt from Churchfields Saltworks.
Katy’s work was part of ‘The Ring and Arts’ programme which celebrates the region’s canals and rivers.
The project, run by the Canal & River Trust, has seen a series of new commissions created by local and internationally celebrated artists in response to the 21 miles of waterways encircling Droitwich and Worcester.
Katy said: “I’ve really enjoyed working with the residents of Droitwich and the fantastic boat crews who have helped make this project happen.
“The final event will be a celebration of the project with a film at this year’s Salt Fest.
“I’m pleased to say after the event the sculpture will be staying in the area for everyone to see.”
On Saturday and Sunday Katy will be in Vines Park showing Salt Fest visitors a special documentary about her journey.
Cathy Mager, artistic director of The Ring, which is part of the Canal & River Trust’s Arts on the Waterways programme, said: “Saltways shines a light on the important story of the town’s international salt trade.
“It will be fascinating to see it again as part of Salt Fest, along with Katy’s film of her journey.”
The film will be shown every half an hour between midday and 4pm on both days.
Another artist part of the project was Heather Wastie.
She wrote a series of poems inspired by the Droitwich Canals and the people who restored them.
The limited edition book of poems, called ‘The Muck and Shovel Brigade’ is available to read online at www.theringart.org.uk/projects/droitwich-canal-restoration/
