Spot the ‘Green Man of Alverstone’ peering down from the trees at the New Carnival Company’s (NCC) free family-friendly arts and countryside festival, All Along the Riverbank, on Bank Holiday Monday (6th May).
This impressive piece aims to connect art with the natural environment, inspiring passers-by to think about their surroundings, how they change, and ultimately their own role in shaping that change.
NCC’s lead artist and creative producer Gina Dyer has spent more than 100 hours making this mysterious character, combining her own creativity with traditional basket making techniques.
Gina said:
“I created the Green Mans frame, profile and form before weaving the different willows in between. Four different types of willow provide the four different colours. Two were harvested locally, from Sandown Meadows Nature Reserve and Branstone Farm, with permission from Hampshire and IW Wildlife Trust.
“The Green Man will be left in the trees after the event, so we can see how nature transforms it over time.”
The Green Man, thought to signify rebirth, has been inspired by a national project called ‘Giants in the Forest’. Similar heads have been erected at various locations in the UK, including 3 UNESCO Biosphere Reserves at North Devon, the Dyfi Valley in Wales and Galloway and Southern Ayrshire in Scotland.
NCC has recently been supporting IW Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’s bid for the Island to receive UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, with the decision expected in June.
At All Along the Riverbank this May Day, say hello to the Green Man while exploring the beautiful 2-mile stretch of cycle track next to the River Yar between Sandown and Newchurch. You can also enjoy a range of fun crafts and activities, art installations, Morris dancing, folk music, storytelling, guided walks and refreshments between 11:00-16:00.
Visit www.thenewcarnivalcompany.com for more information.
