Art Exchange by Laurence Rushby, Andover 2015
CAS Bureau of Exchange
Drawing from the history of the woollen industry, Laurence walked the heart shaped route of Andover town, (once a route used by farmers to bring sheep to the market).
On her way, she hand spun local wool, carrying a spindle on a belt to replicate a tradition from Eastern European countries. The women would mix their wool work with other daily chores; the tradition is for their husband to decorate the belt they carry as an expression of love towards their partner. While walking Laurence engaged with Andover people and collect love, connection and serendipity stories from Andover Town. Her project set out to follow the thread and create connections with Andover people, with artists and with the rest of the world.
11 June: Hot walk today in Andover. Many more stories shared and collected. I met a flock of wild geese in the river. They told me about a long journey home and gave me their feathers. Ended the day talking to an egg seller at the market.
Andover Coins by Ruth Facey
“The Heart of Andover”, a workshop with local Jewellery maker Ruth Facey gave participants the chance to cast their own pewter tokens, one to decorate the belt and one to take home.
The project culminated in an installation at The Bureau of Exchange pop-up-shop
