National Trust Flatford is continuing its celebrations of Constable’s 250th anniversary with an immersive digital installation. Inspired by local stories, the Rivers and Skies Art Residency will transform The Granary at the property between Monday 24 and Sunday 30 August.
Artists Tom Hobden and Phoebe Stapleton have been working with local residents and people with a connection to Flatford to create the installation. Their aim has been to collect local stories, using the theme of rivers and skies as a way to explore memory, belonging and our connection to place – just as John Constable’s paintings demonstrate he had a deep connection to Flatford. The artists have also been working with set designer Christianna Mason to transform the Granary into a space to share these stories.
The result will be an immersive experience, where visitors will be surrounded by projection, animation, film, dance, community voices and an original soundtrack. As Constable’s paintings dissolve into stories gathered from people living here today, the intention is to offer a chance to see the familiar landscapes in a completely new way.
Artist Tom Hobden shared his thoughts about the project, saying: “It’s been a real privilege to work with so many wonderful people on this project and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve created together. I’d love for you to come and experience it.”
Simon Peachey, the Site Manager for the National Trust at Flatford, said: “Constable’s 250th birthday year gave us the perfect opportunity to work with the Essex Cultural Diversity project to explore how Constable’s paintings still resonate with people today. We are super excited to see the work Tom and Phoebe have created and want to share it with as many visitors as possible.”
The project was commissioned by the Essex Cultural Diversity Project and the National Trust, with support from Arts Council England,
Where: Granary at Flatford
When: Monday 24 August to Sunday 30 August, 11am – 3pm daily. Free entry, although parking charges may apply.
