Fishink Travels

Monday was a holiday in the UK, so as a rare treat, I decided to actually take it as a day off and do something with it. I headed over to Didsbury where my school friend Sarah was taking part in a ceramics fair. Set in the Didsbury Parsonage, Sarah is part of the Northern Potters Association and there were about 10 ceramists taking part. A couple of large pieces from Sue Harding and Jane Cordingley working together as Diva Pots.

I admired the humour behind the work of Janet Halligan. ‘ Fascinated with different surface textures, her pieces often emulate, leather, metal, cardboard, with an extraordinary likeness to the real thing. Shoes, bags, belts, clothing and everyday household items are the simple inspiration for her work. A detailed study of objects that surround us everyday, make us re-evaluate the shape, form and texture of things we normally take for granted ‘. You did have to look twice at her handbags and laced-up boots to realise they were clay and not leather !

My two favourites were (not unusually) both animal centered. Firstly the charming work of Barbara Chadwick and her raku fired ceramic birds. I liked the combination of the glaze and the wood they were displayed on.

I ended up taking this little one home with me, for £20 who could have resisted and it’s more like the blue of the image on the left than that on the right.

Last but not least was the beautiful work of Sarah Louise Lynch, who’s wise old owls and quirky terriers stole the show for me. Well done Sarah.

Making the most of the good weather, we travelled over to Wythenshaw Park, which is made up of thirteen separate woods. This 85 hectare site also features two sites of biological importance – Nan Noon Wood and Gib Lane Wood. Nature and sunshine, you can’t beat it !

There was a surprising number of sculptures tucked away for the discovering too.

Plus the old house in the grounds with amazing, detailed carvings around the windows.

And I loved finding this rather large fish and toad sitting quietly, contemplating the moment in the afternoon, dappled sunshine. I did wonder what they might have to chat about !

Always good to get out and explore, (makes mental note to do this more ! ). Hope you brits enjoyed your monday holiday too, what did you do with yours ?