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| Helen Mather & Anna FC Smith on Civic Square, Leigh |
A collaborative and interactive residency at The Turnpike; artists Helen Mather & Anna FC Smith showcase a project taking inspiration from female activists of the early 19th century...
article taken from STAT - ISSUE 02
This collaborative project and interactive residency by Helen Mather and Anna FC Smith takes its initial inspiration from the history of the Leigh Female Reformers of 1819* and the monstrous representations of them in the media of the time. Drawing on this symbolism and elements of the reformer’s activities, the artists are researching and developing work with the Leigh community which weaves a new empowering language based on a shared history of place, myth, power and witchcraft.
Transforming The Turnpike into an enchanted forest ripe for conspiracy, the artists will be running regular workshops which connect people with their history through materials and making. This flexible space will engender citizenry, evolving through participants interaction and creation. A programme of talks, performances and a history walk further explore the sites and history of the reformers and the spectral power in an enfranchised populace.
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| artwork by Anna FC Smith |
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| artwork by Anna FC Smith |
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| artwork by Helen Mather |
*The Leigh Female reformers were part of a movement of Female Reform societies across Greater Manchester that were founded in 1819 to support the growing calls for parliamentary reform, and universal (male) suffrage. They attended many rallies including the tragic Manchester meeting known as the Peterloo massacre.
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| artwork by Helen Mather |
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| mono-prints |
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| embroidery by Paula Fenwick Lucas |
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| research session at Leigh Library |
