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 third in this series of four walks was hosted Adam Chodzko who led a walk into the near future as part of a funeral procession for some of the UK’s last remaining ash trees. Chodzko’s practice uses a wide range of media including video, installation and performance. His work is characterised by a keen curiosity, exploring the interactions and possibilities of human behaviour – the gap between how we are and how we could be. With a few surprises in store for walkers along the way, this walk was stimulating, interactive and surprising.
Supporters
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.