Introduction to Northampton’s New Exhibition
The city of Northampton has come alive with a new exhibition that celebrates its most popular sights, people, and professions. Developed by Northampton College students over 18 months, the show uses a combination of photos, art, and sound to tell the story of the city.
The Exhibition’s Content
Among the buildings featured in the project are the Royal and Derngate Theater, The Guildhall, Trickers Shoe Factory, and The Express Lift Tower. The exhibition also includes the district and swimming pools, giving visitors a comprehensive look at the city’s landmarks. The show reveals photos and artworks of the sights, accompanied by a soundscape of memories from people associated with the buildings and industries.
Student Involvement
The project involved students from various departments, including art, photography, music technology, business, and dance. Carpentry training also played a role in bringing the exhibition to life. College school director, Jason Lancaster, expressed his pride in the city and the exhibition, saying, "Northampton is a very proud city with an incredible heritage. Wherever you go, you can feel the story about the place, and this exhibition brings a large part of it to life."
The Project’s Development
The project was developed by Sarah Thursby, curriculum manager of Northampton College, with the support of colleagues such as Mark Bradshaw and Charles Naylor. Thursby emphasized the significance of the skills used in the exhibition, stating, "The origin of any building presented in the exhibition can be traced back with skills that are an essential part of the history of Northampton and which are still being taught on the Northampton College."
The Exhibition’s Future
The exhibition is open for three weeks in the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery and will then visit some of the places featured in the show. The organizers hope that visitors will be inspired to share their memories of Northampton’s sights and professions, allowing the project to expand and celebrate a broader selection of communities in the city. Level 3 dance students even gave a performance inspired by the exhibition at the launch event, showcasing the city’s vibrant culture.
Conclusion
The exhibition is a celebration of collaboration, with students from the whole college coming together to work with external partners to create something special for the city. As Jason Lancaster said, "This collection is a celebration of the collaboration in which students from the whole college come together to work with external partners in order to create something special for the whole city. It is really appreciated."
