The Soft People
CONTEMPORARY ART MEETS TASMANIA’S HERITAGE
(Commonly known as the ‘Soft People ’ project)
The school children and Master in the school room at Franklin House are the result of an Arts Project between the Northern Suburbs Community Centre, Wendy Nash, Arts therapist and Franklin House.
This project was a couple of years in the planning! The aim of the project was to explore and demonstrate how a heritage site can be the catalyst for contemporary arts practice and community cultural development.
We wanted to work with a group who would not normally access a heritage site. The focus was on research, development and social interaction to produce period doll like boys to bring the school room to life.
Through the enthusiasm and skills of Wendy Nash, the group came together for the project, producing some excellent work, whilst really enjoying themselves and learning new skills.
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As you can see, the project was a great success. The group who call themselves the "Goldies" will continue to be artistic, making more ‘soft people’ for charity and other organisations that have requested them. They will also return to Franklin House, to keep the boys and Master looking clean and tidy. |
This project was made possible through funding from the Community Support Levy, Charitable Organisations Grant Programmes. Also extra funds were donated by the Centennial Lodge, as the amount of calico needed was underestimated!
The planning, process and progress of the ‘soft people’ has been captured by Albert McKenzie, who took 498 photographs. Just a couple of these are shown. You are welcome to view the 'soft people' in the school room of Franklin House during normal opening hours. |
Wendy Nash, Hilary Keeley,The Master, Denise Delphin
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