Installation: Oldham Wakes!

Gallery Oldham. May 23rd-5th September 2026.

Three impulses.

One: The context of the spectacular sculpture gallery, with panoramic views of the moorland on one side, and the post-industrial town of Oldham on the other.

Two: Learning that the once common Starling has been entered on the UK Red List of species as of high conservation concern.

Three: The history of the Oldham Wakes! holiday as a metaphor for change.

This specially commissioned artwork was created for Gallery Oldham, funded by Oldham Council and Arts Council England and featured a soundscape created by Manchester Folk ensemble, Brown Wimpenny. The installation included 1500 decorated starlings made by children from local primary schools, and insects made by The Caribbean Friends Reading Group. Special thanks to Emma Martin at Building The Bridge for leading on the schools participation.