This Cabinet of Curiosities was commissioned by Gwynedd Museum and Art Gallery in 2015. It has been created by Emma Hobbins as part of the museum’s relocation to the old Bishop’s Palace, now known as STORIEL. Inspired by the richness of the museum collection it aims to celebrate Storiel’s role as a collector of stories, memories and objects from the whole of Gwynedd.
There are over 3,000 sheepfolds across north west Wales, but only around 100 of these are the very large, communal, folds that farmers have used to sort the flocks of sheep that graze on the mountains over the summer. This talk looks at how these large folds work, when, why and where they were built and how they fit into the history and culture of welsh hill farming - and also how they are linked to an island off Croatia. Many of them are now falling into disrepair but we will finish the talk by seeing how some are still used today, continuing the pattern and rhythm of gathering sheep from the hills that goes back over 300 years
This ambitious project showcases her signature faux-marble collage technique through large-scale 2D works and a striking immersive floor installation that spans the gallery.
Toria Cameron is a visual artist whose practice bridges contemporary textile craft and fine art. Inspired by the Welsh landscape, she explores ideas of place, belonging and cynefin—the deep connection between people and their environment.