Art project rises out of Royal Clarence fire

Built up in 1769, burnt out in 2016, the tragedy of the fire at Exeter’s Royal Clarence Hotel has left a scar that’s both physical and psychological in our city. 

Yet after destruction comes renewal, a theme that local sculptor Martin Staniforth (known as ‘morth’) is exploring in his creative work. 

Martin said: “I’ve noticed that after disaster strikes, often we see nature begin the healing process as tiny plants start to fill the cracks and wasteland left behind.  Disaster and renewal are part of the circle of life.” 

Now Martin has been allowed to take away over two tons of burnt timbers to design and build an organic, emerging, edifying sculpture on the theme of ‘hope & renewal’. 

This will be sited as a temporary installation on Exeter Cathedral Green for Art Week Exeter (May 13-21, 2017). 

Devon Community Foundation has been hugely supportive by awarding a grant to create a cultural art tribute.  As part of this, there will be a free creative wellbeing workshop on the theme of ‘hope and renewal’ on Sat 29th April, 10-1, at CoLab, Exeter CVS, King William St, EX4 6PD. 

There will be a range of fun, creative exercises and discussion to help design the shape of the sculpture. 

The workshop will be open to all and it is hoped that it will particularly connect with those who are journeying to renewal after a disaster in their lives. 

It is hoped that this workshop will be attended by a range of people who would like to explore what this theme might mean. 

‘Hope and renewal’ might be relevant for us as individuals, for our local community and for issues in the wider world right now.  The workshop will be facilitated by Martin Staniforth, who also facilitates with the Dove Self-Esteem Project, and Sarah Richards from local charity SAFE (Stop Abuse For Everyone).

Free workshop places can be reserved by emailing hope@morth.co.uk or calling 01404 548726. 

No experience is required and you will not be asked to explain why you have come to the workshop.  Just bring an open, enquiring mind.  Tea & coffee will be provided and local bus / parking can be reimbursed if you bring along your ticket.

There is another aspect to this exploration into ‘hope and renewal’ with a photographic competition and exhibition, open to all in Devon. 

Everyone is welcome to submit one photograph on “What does ‘hope and renewal’ look like?” by completing the simple online form at www.morth.co.uk/hope  It might be that you choose to submit an abstract image or a realistic one. 

It’s up to you.  Up to 10 images will be selected by a panel for printing, framing and display at CoLab, Exeter, June 12-16.  These 10 will also appear online on sites including www.morth.co.uk and www.safe-services.org.uk  The closing date is May 4th but why not upload a photo this weekend?

The grant from the Devon Community Foundation will benefit different people in different ways.  It will help Stop Abuse For Everyone to continue with their vital work in the area of raising awareness into domestic abuse and providing support to those who have been affected.  It will help individuals to improve recovery from physical or mental ill health and increase their skills by encouraging discussion and creative practice in a safe space.  This can then help to raise future aspirations, as part of recovery journeys.

Sarah Richards from Stop Abuse For Everyone said: “This project and grant will make a huge difference to people in Exeter who are battling with the effects of domestic abuse.  And the public nature of the sculpture and photographic activity will help to raise awareness of the serious challenges some people face in their homes.  Thank you Devon Community Foundation.”

Laura Hewitt from DCF added “We are delighted to be able to support this fantastic group.  It is groups like this working on the frontline that are so essential to our communities. It’s what makes DCF so important to ensure that together with donors and local groups we can build strong and vibrant communities for everyone in Devon, both now and for the future.”

If you would like to help Devon Community Foundation support groups like Stop Abuse For Everyone, and make a real difference to local people in need, or if you’re a group seeking funding then just get in touch at www.devoncf.com.