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Photo of dom

Posted by dom in young people, workshop

10 December 2023

A Velvet History

Pearls and a shell placed on red velvet to represent a part of Francis Drake's life and the history of his home, Buckland Abbey.
An object brought by a young person to Francis Drake’s home that means something to them about this part of history. They have placed the object on velevet to represent the history of the landscape. Photograph: Andy Hughes

 

Young people creating a quadrant on the floor with material and leaves showing the heritage of the area (natural and cultural). The have place objects about Francis Drake on the quadrant and its material.

Tavistock Youth Cafe sharing their objects on an abstracted aerial map of the landscape for Riverscape: Tamara Heritage-led Stories. Part of the Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Photograph: Andy Hughes. Art-lead Dominica Williamson

I am collaborating with Tavistock Youth Cafe and Tamar Landscape Partnership, with the support from the National Trust to explore Francis Drake’s home at Buckland Abbey. This partnership not only provides a valuable opportunity for young people to connect with their local heritage but also fosters a sense of ownership and leadership in exploring and interpreting the significance of figures like Drake.

 

Young people setting about to make artwork at a table with a blue tablecloth on it.

Tavistock Youth Cafe making Francis Drake Coastscapes for the project - Riverscape: Tamara Heritage-led Stories. Part of the Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Photograph: Andy Hughes. Art-lead Dominica Williamson

Empowering the young people to lead discussions and share their perspectives on Drake, while adults facilitate using co-production techniques, demonstrates a commitment to valuing and amplifying youth voices in shaping the narrative of their community’s history. By engaging in workshops, meetings, train journeys, and one-to-one support sessions, the young people have a variety of avenues to explore their thoughts and feelings about Drake in a supportive and inclusive environment.

A young person in a fish tank making an imaginary seascape with cardboard and paint.

Tavistock Youth Cafe making Francis Drake Coastscapes for the project - Riverscape: Tamara Heritage-led Stories. Part of the Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Photograph: Andy Hughes. Art-lead Dominica Williamson

Furthermore, the involvement of The Tamar Valley National Landscape underscores the connection between local heritage and natural beauty, providing a holistic understanding of the landscape’s significance and its relationship to historical figures like Drake. This interdisciplinary approach not only enriches the exploration but also encourages participants to consider the interplay between culture, history, and the environment.

Young people making a model whilst imagery from the life of Francis Drake is projected onto their work.

Tavistock Youth Cafe making and sharing Coatscapes and Riverscapes in Buckland Abbey for Riverscape: Tamara Heritage-led Stories. Part of the Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Photograph: Andy Hughes. Art-lead Dominica Williamson