Exploring the working land with Justin Partyka and Millennium Farm Trust

The Culture of the Countryside collaborative project with  Millennium Farm Trust and Justin Partyka

Session One at Gainsborough's House, Sudbury

An opportunity to experience the stories and information held in personal and local objects, conversant with the visual stories of Justin's photographs in 'working the land'.

A group of 11 farm workers and volunteers explored, discussed and drew local objects on loan from M.E.A.L alongside examples of local crops. Discussion about the valuable role farms, farming and farm animals play in the group's lives and the positive personal identity this gives was a strong theme.

The group all brought objects which either represented a famer or a photographer. These had been thoughtfully and carefully chosen and there were some beautiful and evocative reasons given for choices.

An informal tour of the exhibition led by Justin and Emma Dearing (Gainsborough House Education and outreach officer) stimulated engaged and fascinated responses to the stories held in the photographs and how these related to local and personal connections.