Free event Family friendly
About
Helen Riddle’s A Stitch in Time explores decay and repair in the wall that environmentalist Charles Waterton built around his estate in Walton in the 1820s. Waterton was ahead of his time in his efforts to protect wildlife and, in building the wall, he is credited with creating the world’s first nature reserve at Anglers Country Park.
In this exhibition, artist Helen Riddle explores the current state of the wall, combining felt, textiles and stitch with lime mortar and other construction materials. Waterton’s wall is 3 miles long and was originally 9-16 feet tall. Some of it is still in good condition but other stretches are crumbling, and some are already just rubble. As the wall ages, the stone reveals its inner beauty, hidden for millennia.
In this new body of work, Riddle captures the subtle variations in colour and the intricate forms revealed through the process of erosion, drawing our attention to the glimpses of parkland framed by the crumbling wall.
While there is beauty to be found in age and decay, unless urgent action is taken to save the wall, it will no longer exist. As our planet approaches critical environmental tipping points, Riddle recognises Waterton’s achievement and highlights the need to preserve his wall for future generations to enjoy.
For more on Helen Riddle’s project, visit her website here.
This event was supported with funding with a Culture Grant by Wakefield Council and is a collaboration with The Friends of Waterton’s Wall.
Venue opening hours
Monday : 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Tuesday : 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Wednesday : 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Thursday : 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Friday : 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Saturday : Closed
Sunday : Closed
- Accessible Car Parking
- Accessible Toilet
- Assistance Dogs Welcome
- Changing Places Facility
- Guide Dogs Welcome
Access facilities
Venue Details
Find us at
Wakefield One, Burton Street,, Wakefield, WF1 2EB
Phone
01924332330
shaun@createcafewakefield.co.uk