Rowley Hills art trail autopsy: what happens when art goes wrong?
Join artists Danni Turbin and Andy Howlett for a walk across the hilltops of Rowley Regis uncovering what remains of their abandoned art trail project.
In 2024 Danni and Andy were commissioned to create a "letterbox" walking trail across the hills of Rowley Regis and Dudley. Several small black boxes were stashed in hidden places across the hills containing hand-drawn postcards, logbooks and relics from the landscape including water and rock samples. The aim was to create a geolocated treasure hunt to encourage people to get out and explore these under-appreciated hills.
Unfortunately when we went back to check on the boxes ahead of launching the trail we found that several of them had vanished without trace. Disheartened we decided to quietly drop the project and for two years the remaining boxes have lain dormant in the landscape, unvisited, unappreciated - time capsules of an artistic failure.
We've decided it's time to return to the trail to examine what remains and see if anything can be salvaged. Join us to help locate the remnants, reflect on the nature of failure, and enjoy some stunning views from one of the region's most under-appreciated hill ranges. You will have the opportunity to sketch your own postcards, take part in a water ritual and pay tribute to a local mountaineering hero.
This event is part of Walkspace's Autumn Season.
PAY WHAT YOU FEEL. Walkspace doesn't receive any regular funding but it costs money and a great deal of time and effort to keep this show on the road. If you are in a position to please donate what you can, however no one will be denied a place due to lack of funds. Walkspace members may determine their own discount.
Tickets
Additional Information
Join Andy and Danni at 11:30am on Sunday 8th November at the Wolverhampton Road entrance to Bury Hill Park in Oldbury, B69 2BJ. This is a circular 3 mile route finishing back at the entrance to Bury Hill Park at around 3pm.
The terrain includes roads, pavements, rocky footpaths, grassy areas, stiles, steps and considerable inclines. Please dress accordingly for a winter walk, with sturdy walking boots, waterproof clothing and be prepared for some muddy sections. The walk will only be called off for weather in the case of severe forecasts. Bring a packed lunch and drinking water. We'll be stopping for a lunch break part way through. Toilets can be found at the KFC restaurant on Wolverhampton Road near where the walk starts and finishes. There aren't any toilet facilities on the rest of the route.
Daniella Turbin is an artist-adventurer from the West Midlands. Her artistic practice combines long distance walking with photography, drawing and writing.
Andy Howlett is an artist-filmmaker, writer and facilitator interested in the power of collective walking to re-map and re-enchant our public spaces. He’s a founding member of Walkspace.