Collaborating at the Old Needles Battery
by Vidya on Apr.17, 2010, under landscape, Workshops
View to the Needles
I was in good company today for a walk in the West Wight over the downs to the Old Needles Battery, with it’s unique view of The Needles at our western-most point. I was accompanying writer Lydia Fulleylove who I have collaborated with in the past, most notably in HMP Albany for a cross-arts project. Today was partly leisure in walking a familiar yet stunning part of the island but also provided the opportunity to discuss the possibilities of working together on another collaboration. The Old Battery was first manned in 1856 to defend the mainland from invasion by the French. The picture here shows an early searchlight which was installed and used just before the turn of the century. Lydia is pictured ascending the spiral staircase which leads to the tunnel ultimately ending in the searchlight. It may all sound very military but provides another dimension for the teaching of art out of doors and an experience of nature and the elements meeting the man-made built environment.
Ascending the spiral staircase