A new exhibition which will see a flight of steps added to the front of the Harris Museum.
AdvertisementDubbed the Harris Flights the steps are due to become a focal point of live performances, art installations and demonstrations by artists.
Museum bosses hope the steps will allow people to move directly from the Flag Market to a new ‘front door’ or vice-versa.
The idea comes from In Certain Places, who create a programme of temporary public artworks and events.
University of Central Lancashire’s (UCLan) Professor Charles Quick, co-curator of In Certain Places, added: “There has often been debate locally about the navigation of the building, where the entrance is and whether the original design was to include steps.
“This is coupled with a desire to have access to the balcony, and to share the opportunity to see Preston from the viewpoint of the privileged few.”
The flights will be open for four weeks from Saturday 17 August.
Councillor Tom Burns, Cabinet member for culture and leisure, said: “The Harris Flights is the centrepiece of Preston’s summer programme and, as such, will see artists and performers bring the museum’s collections to life.
“Community Sundays throughout the month showcase the talents of local groups and bring the culture usually found within four walls out into the open air.
“The mix of dance, music and artistic performances will create a buzz in the city and something for everyone to enjoy. I, for one, cannot wait to sit on the steps, eat lunch and relax in the sunshine.”
Some of the work already commissioned to be included:
Horse + Bamboo: Port of Preston – a fun interactive walkabout theatre piece highlighting the history of Preston Docks.
Ludus Dance: What Once Was, But is No More – two new dances by Ludus’ Preston Youth Co. and Ludus Youth Co. responding to the history contained within the walls, the fleeting nature of Harris Flights, and unusual places & spaces.
Bluestreak Arts: Visio – a new original theatrical intervention inspired by the stories, archives, heritage & collections of the Harris.
Work to create the staircase will begin on Saturday 10 August.
Will you be visiting the steps? Let us know in the comments below