Creative art project in Clipstone sees residents list alternative landmarks

People of all ages were invited to suggest alternative landmarks to the one that has dominated their community for decades, to help create a digital celebration of their community.

The long-standing landmark most associated with the area are the 68-metre-high headstocks, or winding mechanisms, from the former colliery.

Participants were asked to name anything in their community that made them think of “home” and could act as a landmark.

Some sent written replies and some provided audio clips for a short digital film.

Simon Jones and Martin Purdy, of folk song, art and storytelling collective Harp and a Monkey, were at the helm of the project.

Simon, an animator and art photographer, said: “We don’t really spend too much time in our lives to stop and think about the good things we have on our doorstep, the everyday things that are such an important of our lives and sense of home, so this was a really positive project for everyone.”

It was Simon, alongside storyteller Martin, who had the job of editing, curating and animating the material contributed by residents as part of the project commissioned by Nottinghamshire arts provider Live & Local..

The film – Colourful Clipstone: Favourite Local Landmarks – is full of drawings from Year 5 pupils at Samuel Barlow Primary Academy in the village.

Among the alternative landmarks chosen by the children were a variety of sites, from a pizza parlour to a nearby supermarket, while adults focused on the war memorial, Vicar Water Country Park and Clipstone Social Club.

The beauty of the surrounding Sherwood Forest was a common thread for many.

One participant said: “Vicar Water – just a lovely space for our village to make use of, with lots of green space and play areas, plus wildlife.”

Another resident said: “The Social Club, which is the old village hall. “We used to come every weekend for the rock and roll sessions when we were younger. We still come here now for Bingo and get-togethers.”