What Makes Horbury..?
Cluntergate Artist in Residence Wants Your Take on Making in the Village
As part of a project for the Cluntergate Centre in Horbury, artist Andy Abbott is asking residents about the creative skills and knowledge in the village. The information gathered will help shape a new artwork commissioned by the community centre. Andy is particularly interested in hearing about ‘makers’ in their many forms and suggests:
‘Horbury has a rich history of making, manufacture and creativity. That legacy can be seen in the wealth of community activity and independent business in the area. Just from an afternoon’s walk around the village I saw and met professional jewellery makers, classic car restorers, bespoke engravers, traditional sign makers, crafters and sewers, horticulturalists and gardeners, world-famous custom drum manufacturers, spare time calligraphers and wire and iron fabricators. Not to mention all the excellent homemade food, cakes and fine cups of coffee on offer!’
‘I’m keen to celebrate this side of the town and learn more about Horbury’s making in its broadest sense; it doesn’t just have to be about physical things. You can make music, make a song and dance or make a mess. There are skills and activities that make people feel welcome, or that help make people feel good about themselves and each other, fitter and happier, that make space for people to do things, and that make the village a better place for everyone. I’m hoping the people of Horbury will be keen to share their take on making with me and help create a portrait of the area by the talents and knowledge that make it a unique place.’
If you are a maker in Horbury, or know someone in the village that is, then you can contact the Cluntergate Centre on 07873 544948 or email Andy at zadanzig@yahoo.co.uk. You can also contribute through the Cluntergate Centre’s Facebook and Twitter page @cluntergate and using the hashtag #horburymakes. The Artist in Residence scheme at Cluntergate Centre is supported by Horbury Civic Society and The Good of Small Things.