A new micro installation in the Clayden Gallery at Quay Arts, Olivia, re-tells the extraordinary life of Miss Olivia Parkes, who lived in Ventnor for almost 40 years in a dilapidated boathouse held up by stilts.
Using animated micro ‘vignettes’ within a replica wooden model boathouse, it is accompanied by audio recordings of Ventnorians who remember Miss Parkes (nicknamed Britannia by locals).
Watch on South Today
On Tuesday, South Today were on the Island filming the exhibition at Quay Arts, speaking to the artists, as well as visiting the Longshoreman’s Museum on Ventnor’s seafront to find out more about Miss Parkes.
It’s thought the segment might be shown on Friday’s programme (BBC1 South Today 6.30pm). This is obviously subject to change depending on the news of the day. If it’s not shown this week, it’ll follow in the near future.
How unconventional people are treated within society
Olivia’s life raises many questions about how unconventional people are treated within society.
The scene captures the details of her daily existence, intriguingly opening a window on the spirit of a woman who dared to live differently.
Photographic exhibition
Photographs by Samuel French will be on display in our Cafe that capture the Olivia project during Ventnor Fringe Festival, as well as images inspired by her story.
Workshops
As part of the Olivia exhibition, Teresa Grimaldi and Sarah Vardy are running workshops where participants can create props and characters inspired by Olivia’s Story and start to explore animation and shadow theatre.
Starting with a guided tour of the Olivia exhibition in the Gallery, these creative workshops will let you conjure up images relating to her life on the edge of the sea.
Workshops are suitable for ages 8+, taking place on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th Sep (10am – 11.30am / 1.30pm – 3pm both days).
When to see it
The exhibition is open daily 9am-5pm until Saturday 7th October. The projection viewing available to see between 10am-2pm in the Clayden Gallery.
Artists’ talk
A short film screening, artists’ talk with Teresa Grimaldi and Sarah Vardy and a tour of the Olivia Exhibition will be held from 2pm at Quay Arts on Sunday 1st October.
For more information or how to book the creative workshops and artist talk, please go to the Website.
News shared by Tayla on behalf of Quay Arts. Ed
