Local arts for wellbeing charity, Independent Arts, have unveiled their new exhibition – The History of Newport Mills.
This new exhibition is part of Renew Newport which runs alongside the High Street Heritage Action Zones project funded by Historic England. This work is designed to help reconnect people to Newport through cultural activities.
The History of Newport Mills is a combination of a fairly traditional museum-style exhibition featuring images and historical information but it is supplemented by some wonderful artworks created as a response to the exhibition. The work has been produced by young people from across the Island including young carers, 1st Newport Scouts (Old Guard) and pupils of Years 5 and 6 at St Helens Primary School.
Hannah Griffiths, Community Engagement Manager of Independent Arts, says:
“The History of Newport Mills exhibition has been a great way to connect people with the history of buildings that they walk past every day.
“The young people’s artwork really complements the exhibition. A working watermill created by Young carers and Studio Wren brings the mills to life. A 3D map of Newport created by the Scouts supported by artist Vicky Wilson shows where the mills were located around Newport. The collage made by pupils at St Helen’s Primary school has been made using some of the materials made and milled around Newport. The school has been working with artist Jo James and have used a series of artistic mediums including sewing, felting and collagraph. The work helps bring all the history together.
“It has been lovely to give young people the chance to be involved in creating such a diverse range of artwork”.
The exhibition is open daily from 10:00-16:30 (closed Sundays and Bank Holiday) at Independent Arts Creative Hub, 48 High Street, Newport. Entry to the exhibition is free and will run until 10th June.
