In these two gardens, these places of reflection, a greenhouse arrives. In the greenhouse, gardeners work to develop new strains of those plants originally included in Miss Denison’s 1930 planting plan for the garden, but which were unable to grow in soil contaminated by the area’s industrial past. Thoughts and reflections recorded by organically shaped microphones placed around the gardens will be played back inside the Greenhouse, so that the words of the people of Coventry can nurture the fledgling plants. The greenhouse will be a place for people to learn about these plants, but also somewhere to learn about the people with whom they share the city.
who:
A collaboration between Colin Marsh and Nicola Richardson, a duo who have worked together a number of times utilising their different styles and approaches. Colin is primarily a 2D artist who works on large-scale drawing based on events at home and abroad. Predominantly an installation artist, Nicola’s work focuses on perception and identity of people and places. The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, like the Gardens of this project, offers opportunities for reflection, contemplation and growth. The Herbert is first and foremost about the production of culture, and we are all cultural producers, because to make a culture is to make a life, it is not about 'what we do', but about 'the way we do it'. A life is something that deserves and needs to be given time and space to be thought about.
why:
Greenhouses and home gardening became a symbol of British strength and determination during the first and second World Wars. Lady Herbert’s Garden and the Garden of International Friendship represent that ethos in today’s culture. Using the area’s unique spirit we want to nurture the potential of these spaces for people to explore their thoughts. Gardens in general, whether visiting or working in, seem to have an almost medicinal outlet for clarity of thinking - this work aims to visually demonstrate that link.
where:
Set in the heart of an ever-changing city centre, Lady Herbert’s Garden offers people a tranquil oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. The area's first developments began in 1930 thanks to one man's vision and generosity. Before then the area had a varied use combining both living and industrial space, and included the old Hippodrome. During 2000 the surrounding area was also enhanced by the construction of the Garden of International Friendship.
when:
The work will begin in the spring and will continue to grow throughout the year.
Thoughts can be shared at any time in Lady Herbert’s Garden.
The Greenhouse will be open 8am till 5pm
Venue Access Audit (carried out by the artist/producer).
This is intended as a guide for other artists and producers considering staging an event in the venue. However please note that the guidance given here is a subjective assessment of the venue as of May 2004.
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For key to symbols, see Access page
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Is there a suitable get-in to the venue/site for equipment etc?
There are a number of access points around the garden, height and width for access and equipment not an issue
Is the venue accessible to wheelchair users? and if not, what would it take to make it accessible?
As above. There are a number of steps within the garden but wheelchair routes have been created round many of the short flights of steps and tactile paving and high visibility strips have been installed at steps to assist blind and partially sighted visitors. However some points within Lady Herbert’s garden are still inaccessible and a clear route around the garden not possible. This could be better improved by wheelchair routes around all of the stairs and for them to be more clearly visible, perhaps continuing the paving onto these routes. We would also propose that there are spaces created for wheelchair users to sit next to the benches in Lady Herbert’s Garden, a need for the space as well as for our artwork.
Are there toilets, including a wheelchair accessible toilet?
There are no toilets in the gardens, but the Motor Museum and Pool Meadow bus station are very close, and there are toilets including a wheelchair accessible toilet.
Is there an electricity supply?
There is an electricity supply to the gardens that power the lights, but presently no power supply available in the garden for events etc.
Are there fire exits?
Yes, open air.
Is there space for bar/hospitality?
Lots of outside space for temporary bar / hospitality, – would need Gazebo of some kind dependant on weather. If held in Lady Herbert’s Garden would need something to protect the grass
Is there space for box office/curator/front of house?
Lots of outside space for temporary box office / curator / front of house – would need Gazebo of some kind dependant on weather. If held in Lady Herbert’s Garden would need something to protect the grass
Is the venue/site family or child friendly?
The site is family friendly, however there is a small pond that is not guarded and roads nearby. Due to the divisions in the gardens, the entire site is not visible at one time. We would suggest that children are accompanied at all times.
How easy is it to find the venue?
It is very easy to find the Garden, particularly with the recent developments in the area. The area is easily seen from town and the ring road. However we felt there could be better signage.
How easy is it to get to the venue on foot? would you want to make this journey after dark?
It is easy to get to the venue on foot, due to its close proximity to the City centre and Pool Meadow bus station. From the city centre the journey is not bad after dark. Journeys from other parts of the city (particularly walking under the ring road) are not ones you want to make after dark.
Is there car parking nearby?
There is parking nearby (approx 2 minutes on foot), opposite the swimming baths. Alternative parking can be found by the main post office on Tower Street.
What might be a good interpretation solution for your show? signer?audio description? another? can it be fully integrated into the concept?
We have tried to think of making our artwork as accessible as possible, using visual as well as audio. All publicity for the work would need to be available in large print and braille format.
links: Nicola Richardson | Colin Marsh | The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum
The Virtual Fringe is © Talking Birds, each virtual project is © the artist.
