Sheffield’s river system is a part of the city’s history that for many of us goes unnoticed. However, it will be getting its flowers as Weston Park Museum opens its newest exhibition.
City of Rivers brings together stories, objects, artwork, film and photography to chronicle Sheffield’s relationship with its waterways.
The display draws on contributions from local artists, reflecting on our connections to them in our work, leisure time and our impact on the natural habitats they represent.
At the exhibition’s opening, a welcome talk by the co-ordinator was followed by a councillor’s call to action. Themes such as climate change, ambition and championing cultural organisations were at the forefront of the speech.
What followed was an inspiring poem about the Rivelin riverway read by Kim Martin Dale as we were allowed to access the entire museum.
There were several local artists present, forming the 250 guests that attended the opening event.
The exhibition itself is a fascinating tribute to the agriculture of Sheffield. It features over 300 artworks and found objects, exploring how Sheffield’s five rivers have shaped the city geographically, economically and psychologically.
Displays of taxidermy animals showcased the variety of wildlife and the reintegration of newer species, like the red-finned terrapin.
My favourite piece (below), by folk singer Sean Cooney, described Sheffield’s great flood and the heroics of life-saving ‘Rollo the dog,’ accompanied by a video of his song and sheet music.
I was grateful to discuss an image of a 3D topographic map of Sheffield with Sheffield wild swimmer Holly Clifford, who commissioned the artwork to be used in the display.
Another interesting element was the amount of interactivity, with a make-your-own poetry station (below) and a number of listening and writing activities; for example, ‘What do you want for the future of Sheffield’s rivers?’
It was a successful opening night, with a variety of forms of artwork to enjoy, from the 1800s to the present day. The exhibition allowed me to dive into the minds of some of Sheffield’s brilliant artists, both through their work and through talking to them directly.
The exhibition is free and is now open to the public. It will run until November next year. It is definitely worth heading down to take in some of Sheffield’s best agricultural artwork and learn about the iconic history of Sheffield’s rivers.