More than 1,600 people visited Stockbridge Village on the 4th and 5th February to see the latest event in Knowsley’s year-long Borough of Culture programme. Tall Tales was a stunning large-scale community artwork that saw Merecliff – a residential 16-storey tower block in Stockbridge Village owned by ForHousing — animated and illuminated with heart-warming stories from the local community.
Landlord ForHousing, Knowsley Council, light and sound artists Illuminos, and, importantly, the people of Stockbridge Village collaborated to bring this dramatic projection to the heart of the community.
The site-specific projection, unique to Stockbridge and Merecliff high-rise, opened with the scene of a pot of tea, pouring everyone a cuppa from the windows on the block. Voices from the community were overlaid, sharing their stories about riding chopper bikes through the old subways, the pride of football on the estate and the beauty of the Craigs Community Garden, creating a vibrant, immersive celebration of the borough.
“I was so excited to see my picture in Tall Tales,” said Connor Dowle, aged 11, who had his story featured in the projection.
ForHousing worked closely with the community to encourage tenants and locals alike to get involved by sharing stories and memories of the place they call home. Tall Tales captured the community spirit, heart and supportive place that Stockbridge is to live in.
Abigail Winstanley, Neighbourhood Strategic Lead at ForHousing, said: “Seeing tenants share their stories, and having images that bring them to life projected onto a living canvas made up of their homes and the homes of their friends and family, has been really special. It has given tenants a voice — which is so important for creating a place people are proud to call home.
“It’s wonderful to see tenant’s pride in where they live shine through in this celebration of the local community.”
Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods, commented: “Tall Tales was a joyous celebration of the people of Stockbridge Village. It had humour and heart, and it’s something the entire community should be proud of.
“Tall Tales is the latest instalment in Knowsley’s year-long Borough of Culture programme. So far visitors have enjoyed Aqualux in Kirkby, Magic Wood in Halewood and Gaia at St. Chad’s Church — with all attractions forming part of ‘New Dawn’ – a series of moments of light across the borough. There are still more illuminating events to come, and I’d encourage everyone to come along and be a part of this special year.”
