Saltaire Arts Trail 2018
The artist Mim Robson was busy creating pretty patterns outside the church. She was using natural materials: flower petals, leaves, seeds, stems - in a manner that reminded me of the well dressings that are common to the Derbyshire Peak District where I grew up. Well dressings are pressed into clay, whereas Mim's works were simply arranged on the ground. (Luckily, it wasn't windy.) Many of her artworks are ephemeral, inspired by land artists such as Andy Goldsworthy, and sympathetic to the surroundings, perhaps created in the woods or on a beach. They blow away, get washed away by tides or simply change and disintegrate over time, which is all part of the process. Mim also creates mandalas out of flower petals and uses henna to make patterns.
Never had heard of Well Dressings, and it seems a beautiful custom, so I'm glad it's still carried forward. The etherial quality of being here only for a little while to enjoy is perhaps what makes these creations especially enjoyable. A momentary experience, like the smell when you bend over a flower, then walk away. I'm so happy to see this woman's art. I love what Goldsworthy does as well.
ReplyDeleteVery pretty!
ReplyDeleteI was reminded of Goldsworthy when I saw the pics. They look great!
ReplyDeleteThey are pretty. They are a bit like chalk paintings in that the artist understands that they will be short-lived but the short-term beauty is worth it.
ReplyDelete