Thursday, July 09, 2015

Matt Stokes: 'Objects to See Further: In Focus' The Mining Institute, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK

Image: Newall Refractor at Ferndene, Gateshead, 1872. Courtesy University of Cambridge, Institute of Astronomy

Objects to See Further: In Focus


Tuesday 14 July, 7.00 - 9.30pm

The Mining Institute, Neville Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE


ADMISSION FREE


An event that brings together leading writers, historians and scientists, who through a series of presentations will introduce some of the key histories and themes that are shaping the development of Objects to See Further, a new film by artist Matt Stokes, developed as part of Great North Run Culture's, 'Great North Greats' programme.

 

Speakers include:


Matt Stokes: artist, will introduce Objects to See Further by offering an overview of his research, ranging from the story of the Newall Refractor, which was originally sited in Gateshead and was once the most powerful telescope of its kind in the world - to the detailed social reportage contained in Joe Wilson's songwriting.


Henrietta Heald: author of 'William Armstrong, Magician of the North' will talk about the life and legacy of William Armstrong, with particular emphasis on the years around 1871.


Colin Cunningham: Director of UK European-Extremely Large Telescope project, will talk about the history behind the development of the largest optical-infrared telescope in the world, including the practicalities involved in the construction, which have quite literally involved moving a mountain. As well as insight into what it is hoped this instrument will enable scientists to discover.


Peter Dillon: is a writer, film director and Senior Lecturer at Northumbria University. He wrote the award winning BBC 2 documentary 'River Racing', which surveyed the history of rowing on the Tyne. In his presentation he will chart this fascinating and overlooked part of local sporting tradition.

 

The presentations will conclude with a short performance of Joe Wilson songs, sung by Alan Fitzsimmons, known as 'Fitzy' on Tyneside and beyond. Alan is a member of 'The Keelers' and was a founding member of the Gosforth Folk Club.

 

Refreshments will be provided.


Booking information:


Please reserve a place by emailing objectstoseefurther@gmail.com

 

In partnership with Tyne & Wear Archives and Museums and made possible through support from Port of Tyne, Arts Council England and Heritage Lottery Fund
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