Artist Residency and Workshops at
Water Fest 2023
On Saturday 10 June from 11am, 4 artists will be hosting a series of workshops that will take place within the Abbey Ruins and Forbury Gardens. The workshops will give participants an insight into the artists processes and techniques used to create their work.
In recognition of Reading’s Climate Festival 2023 these workshops have been developed to highlight the heritage and environmental connections with our waterways.
When artists are not hosting workshops they are available to chat about their work at the Jelly base within the Abbey Ruins.
About our artists and their workshops:
Weaving with Mel Nabarro
Working together on a giant custom made loom, participants will be invited to join textile artist and weaver Mel Nabarro to weave in colourful fabrics to make a community textile. Using traditional weaving techniques participants can spend time with Mel mindfully weaving in recycled fabrics, creating with their hands and making a community textile wall hanging. A fun, relaxing and participatory activity that is suitable for all ages and abilities.
All materials will be provided for this workshop
Drop in anytime during the session times. There may be a short wait at the craft table at busy times.
Workshop Times:
Session 1: 11.00am to 12.00pm, Session 2: 12.00pm to 1pm, Session 3: 1.45pm to 2.45pm, Session 4: 2.45pm to 3.45pm, Session 5: 4pm to 5pm
Sewing with Kate Powell
Join artist Kate Powell for a recycling textile workshop to create Suffolk Puffs. Suffolk Puffs are an ancient form of textile repurposing and are thought to originate from Suffolk in the 1600s. They were made from clothes that could no longer be mended and other scraps. They were mainly used to make quilts, sometimes stuffed with wool to make them warmer. Nothing was wasted.
In later years they were used for decorative purposes and to make toys. We are going to make charms using donated fabric scraps, buttons and beads.
All materials will be provided for this workshop
This workshop is recommended for ages 9 and up. Needles will be used, adults are required to participate with all children.
Workshop Times:
Session 1: 11.15pm to 12.15pm Session 2: 12.15pm to 1.15pm Session 3: 2.00pm to 3pm Session 4: 3.00pm to 4pm Session 5: 4.15 to 5pm
Drop in anytime during the session times. There may be a short wait at the craft table at busy times. Register your interest here https://SewingWithKatePowell.eventbrite.co.uk
Join photographer John Angerson on an artist walking tour of Reading Abbey and the surrounding area. The tour will begin with the distribution of a map, which outlines the different stops along the way. Each stop will be marked with a corresponding icon, as the tour progresses, participants will visit different locations, learning about the history and culture and be shown some of the artworks already made by John. The map serves as a guide, helping participants to navigate their way through space while also highlighting hidden gems and lesser-known artistic treasures.
Maps are a source of inspiration for John’s work and his way to connect with the landscape on a deeper level. By studying maps, John can gain a sense of the natural rhythms and patterns that shape the landscape. The ruins of Reading Abbey are a popular tourist attraction and a reminder of the town’s rich history. Maps played an important role in the history of Reading Abbey. The monks who lived there were skilled cartographers and produced many maps of the surrounding area. Beyond the practical benefits of using maps, they also offer a unique opportunity for groups to engage with the history and culture of the landscape they are working in.
Photography and Cartographic Journey with John Angerson
This workshop will provide participants with a new perspective on the creative process and offer insights into John Angersons’ own artistic approach
No materials or equipment are provided in this workshop. Please bring your own camera or phone camera to this workshop.
Meet at the Jelly stand within the Dormitory of Abbey Ruins.
All workshops are aimed at adults. Children aged 9+ are welcome to join with a participating adult. Numbers are limited and each adult and any accompanying children must register for a ticket.
John will be available to chat about his work on our Jelly stand between 4pm and 5pm
Join artist Linda Newcombe to make your own beautiful illustrations in this climate-themed creative workshop. Linda is an award-winning illustrator who uses rubbing techniques on paper to create delicate images with powerful messages. She will be showing how she does this and bringing vinyl blocks designed for us so that you can experiment with making your own images by overlapping and layering motifs. The outcomes are always beautifully unexpected. She’ll be helping you to combine her symbolic templates and methods to create your own illustrations. You'll also be able to turn your creation into a badge to take home.
All materials will be provided for this workshop
Illustration with Linda Newcombe
All workshops are aimed at adults. Children aged 6+ are welcome to join with a participating adult. Numbers are limited and each adult and any accompanying children must register for a ticket.
Linda will be available to chat about her work on the Jelly stand between 11am and 12pm.
Family Life Drawing with Costumed Models
Jelly artists will be on hand to guide you through some sketching warm up techniques. Suitable for beginners and experienced artists.
Spaces are first come first served. No ticket is required, drop in on the day. We will have basic art materials to borrow. We encourage you to bring your own if you would like to.
Find us located on the lawn near the pond within Forbury Gardens.
Workshops are aimed at all ages and abilities.
Times: 11.30am to 12.30pm and 1pm to 2pm
Also on display at Water Fest 2023
This year we have been working with Years 4 and 5 at New Town Primary to create a textile banner which will be on display at Water Fest. The banner is inspired by the young people's words, hopes and intentions in response to the climate emergency and the wildlife and plants surrounding our waterways.
AND our flags made in 2022 will also be on display along the River Kennet have been made by children and their families at Forbury Fiesta, Jelly workshops in our studio in Broad St Mall and with years 5 and 6 at Newtown Primary.
Special thanks to guest artist Bridget Turgoose for showing us how to make wood block printed flags.
Water Fest is Reading’s largest free town centre-based community event. It will feature an exciting mix of arts, culture and heritage, through live performances, activities and workshops.
The event takes place in the Forbury Gardens, Abbey Ruins and along the Kennet, between Chestnut Walk and the Riverside Museum between 11am and 5pm. Reading Borough Council and The Kennet and Avon Canal Trust are working together once again and hope you can join us for what we hope will be very enjoyable day!
The event will consist of live entertainment, children’s activities and refreshments, water activities, narrow boats, craft and charity stalls.