ARTIST and poet Thomas Pearson uncovers the industrial heritage of Teesside in a new project Brine Field opening at RSPB Saltholme on Saturday, May 25, from 9.30am to 5pm (free entry).
Twelve white obelisks appear amid the reedbeds and wet grasslands of RSPB Saltholme as part of Thomas Pearson's explorations of the environment, history and industrial heritage of Teesside. These striking sculptural monuments are designed to echo the brine derricks that used to characterise this remarkable landscape.
Saltholme is now a popular destination for birdwatchers, local families and visitors to Teesside, and is home to numerous birds species including common terns, lapwings, peregrines and water rails.
The Billingham-born artist has also written a series of atmospheric poems that respond to the site and its 'submerged histories' – from migrating birds to the ICI chemical works where his grandfather and great grandfather worked 'with men in moleskin suits and masks'. A booklet of seven poems has been produced so visitors can read his words while exploring the nature reserve, which is also available online at edgelandia.com. Visitors can also join a 'poetry tour' led by the artist on selected days.
Thomas Pearson said: "I am delighted to present Brine Field in the unique landscape of RSPB Saltholme, so close to my home town of Billingham. It has been fascinating to use words and sculpture to explore the site's connections to iron, salt, ships, chemicals – and now birds. I've also really enjoyed weaving in some threads from my own family history, including tales from Cassel Works, Haverton Hill and Seal Sands."
Brine Field has been commissioned as part of Edgelandia – a national arts project to explore hidden stories and forgotten landscapes – and is part of a programme of celebrations to mark the tenth anniversary of the opening of RSPB Saltholme.
There are poetry tours on Sunday, May 26, and on Wednesday, May 29, Saturday, June 1 and Wednesday, June 5 (times to be confirmed).
For more information, call the reserve on 01642 546625.
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