A song for the seas: free workshops at North Sea Observatory

North Sea Observatory beach view
North Sea Observatory beach view

Six free drop-in workshops to take place with artist in residence at the North Sea Observatory this September.

Join artist in residence, Harriet Plewis, at free drop-in sessions at the North Sea Observatory to contribute to a ‘ruttier’ for the Lincolnshire coast.

Ruttiers were ancient poems – spoken or sung – containing navigational instructions that sailors learned by heart and recited from memory to guide them across the seas.

These sessions will be a chance to think through non-standard ways of learning, memorising, archiving, and commemorating.

The free sessions will take place from 10am to 4pm on:

  • Wednesday 6 September
  • Saturday 9 September
  • Wednesday 13 September
  • Wednesday 20 September
  • Sunday 24 September
  • Wednesday 27 September

Laura Garner, exhibitions and interpretations assistant at Lincoln Museum, said:

“If you’ve never even heard of a ruttier before, don’t worry. No previous experience is necessary for the workshops and it’s an exciting way to discover this part of our maritime history.

“Harriet’s residency at the North Sea Observatory follows on from the success we’ve had with previous exhibitions at the unique coastal venue. Nestled into the sand, with stunning views out to sea, the North Sea Observatory provides an inspiring backdrop to explore our relationship with the sea through art.

“The artist residency will close with an event at the end of October where the final ruttier will be performed during sunset.”

This artist residency at the North Sea Observatory is part of Lincoln Museum’s Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation programme of activity.

Plan your visit to the North Sea Observatory at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/NSO.

Or, keep up to date with activities, events at exhibitions at Lincoln Museum and the Usher Gallery by visiting www.lincolnmuseum.com.

Published: 31st August 2023