The ash tree is the most common tree in the Kent Downs but in 2012, ash dieback (caused by the fungal pathogen Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) was discovered in the U.K. and the disease has rapidly spread. Ash dieback is untreatable and could see the demise of up to 98% of these trees over the next decade.
The Ash Project is a cultural response to ash dieback, asking how we might mark and celebrate ash trees. In 2018, The Ash Project is working in partnership with Whitstable Biennale to present a series of artists’ walks. Curator Rose Thompson has devised four walks in collaboration with artists, encouraging different ways of looking at and exploring the landscape in Kent.
The second in this series of four walks was hosted by The Walking Reading Group (TWRG), which is run by Lydia Ashman, Ania Bas and Simone Mair. The group facilitates a knowledge exchange through the discussion of texts whilst walking. On this walk, TWRG focused on care in relation to the environment, taking the ash dieback disease, which has now infected Ash trees across Kent, at the centre point of the discussion. Selected texts that explore the different ways we relate to the environment will form the basis for conversation during the walk and these will be provided to walkers to read ahead of the event.
Supporters
Meet opposite the Horsebridge Arts Centre at 14:00.
The walk is free and open to all to attend, but as spaces are limited, we recommend booking in advance. Please note, this walk will be approximately three hours long and will take place through uneven countryside terrain. For any queries, please email info@whitstablebiennale.com. Click here to register for this free event via Eventbrite
Meet at the Hosebridge Arts Centre, 2pm