Story & Photo: Ben Richards.
If you happened to be strolling through Burngreave Cemetery on Friday 10th of October, you may have stumbled across a very positive and eclectic group of people. ‘Creative Outpost’ is a multitalented group of volunteers who are motivated by the revival of Burngreave’s Chapel and Cemetery. They see it being used in diverse and electrifying ways.
It was “a day of events in the exploration and fusion of creative spaces.” There was live music performed by international Indian violinist Kamalbir Nandra, international touring blues guitarist and vocalist Tom Rodwell, and Damian Horner-Pausma on tabla, as well as local artists Susan Gent, Patrick Amber, Cassie Limb, Jennifer Booth and Alice Farrington.
The artists transformed the vaulted ceilings and pious walls of the chapel into a festival of multi-media sounds and visuals. Amber’s robotic automaton towered over the public, whilst Gent’s exploration of art and taxidermy caused a few interesting reactions!
Everyone who witnessed the event spoke positively about the efforts and impact that ‘Creative Outpost’ was making on the local community. “I am very happy that the cemetery is being put to good use,” was the view of Mohammed Siddiqi of Catherine Road. Ultimately the ethos behind ‘Creative Outpost’ is to re-use and re-cycle urban spaces for positive expression.
The overall impression I had of the event was a great opportunity for local people and artists to meet and discuss issues surrounding art and the environment. Events of this nature can only help connect the community of Burngreave, increase awareness of environmental and social issues and allow people to witness something out of the ordinary.
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