We were commissioned by History Professor Paul Elliott, from the University of Derby to partner with him on a research project of how Derby Parks and green spaces were used during World War One.
We worked with a team of researchers to gather the information which we used to create a large textile banner and information banners. We worked with members of a local refugee group, the GoldsQUAD group and held drop in sessions over the summer to design and sew the textile banner.
The banner was exhibited in the Orangery in Derby Arboretum as part of the 'Lark in the Park' celebrations.
The exhibition was opened by Councillor Jangir Khan, and speeches were given by Professor Paul, history student Stuart Bagley and Jenny and Maureen from Spiral Arts.
The banners were exhibited for 2 weeks in the Orangery. We hope to have further displays of the banners in the next few months.
This year's trail was part of our 'Derby Green Spaces during World War One' project and all the well dressings were based on the research we had found.
We exhibited the 10 well dressings around the city centre venues and also in the Derby Arboretum Park.
We worked with 5 schools, community groups as well as many visitors some from as far away as Australia.
We are working with the University of Derby History Dept and some local researchers on a project called Derby Green Spaces during World War One. We are looking for information about how the parks and green spaces were used during the war and the activities that took place.
The project involves creating a textile banner with local groups.
Here are some images from our sessions with the Upbeat Communities Group and our local researchers.
