Gone into the workhouse

Focus and research aims: This work is based on archival research into the rural poor of Romney marsh. Originally produced as a site-specific installation for a medieval church at Old Romney as part of the Art in Romney marsh exhibition 2003. It develops previous work using historical material to create work that is of contemporary relevance. Like previous expanded work the video is intended to be viewed solely as part of the installation. It foregrounds the fragmentary conflicted nature of memory through the use of projections through glass panels which both multiply the image but also deny a single privileged position to the viewer who may only see part of the image at one time. It is part of ongoing work that seeks to engage the viewer while also allowing them autonomy of both gaze and interpretation. Methods and processes: This work was developed through extensive location filming in and around 10 of the medieval churches in Romney marsh, finally focussing on the church at Old Romney. This was combined with archival research in various Kent archives and the creation of constructed video sequences to produce the final piece. The video reflects 3 main 'narratives' the charwoman, the workhouse orphan and the agricultural emigrants. The workhouse architecture and the separation of genders and ages within its walls influenced the construction of the separate 'compartments' with Hessian pallets between the glass panels. Dissemination: Shown as part of the Coastal Currents Artin Romney marsh 2003 Experiments in Moving Image, University of Westminster 2004 Harrow Open show, London Gallery West 2004. The Video also uses location filming in Canada and constructed sequences. Dissemination: This was shown as part of The Voyage Out exhibition at The Dock Museum, Barrow in Furness 2003