Kettle’s Yard has been developing a number of new partnerships as part of our innovative Open House community programme. One such partnership has been with the Red Hen Project, a local charity based in North Cambridge who support children and their families to overcome barriers to learning.

Harold Offeh, Open House Artist in Residence 2017, collaborated with community partners to develop and create the Inventory Collection. Inspired by an inventory written by Jim Ede and housed in the Kettle’s Yard archive, which details many of the more domestic objects in house, each of which has a short anecdote or memory attached, Offeh invited participants to design and make objects which have a special resonance to them. Kettle’s Yard’s team of Artist Facilitators shared their specialist skills to support participants in realising their creations.

Artist Facilitator Willow Mitchell worked with families at the Red Hen Project. Together they designed North Cambridge ‘willow pattern’ plates. They also created a table runner made by dipping fabric in tea (‘builders’ and fruit tea) which features applique designs by the families. Both of these were displayed and used at the Open House Gathering and Feast in September 2017.

The Red Hen families wanted to share their new skills with the wider community and have created their own ‘How to’ notes with Willow which will show you how to make your own woollen coaster. You can download the information here or see below for instructions.

Families and visitors of all ages who joined us at the Open House Gathering had a go at making coasters themselves.

“I’ve really enjoyed this project and it has re-sparked my enthusiasm for making. This opportunity has given me the confidence to now get creative alongside my children. I would love to do even more!” Red Hen participant.

“We came to the Gathering especially to see our artwork. I am so proud to see my work and my son’s work on display – they look wonderful!’ Red Hen family.

The families also wrote down some of the favourite recipes which we are delighted to share with you too. Click here to download recipes for chocolate cake, the perfect roast chicken and many more tried, tested and much loved recipes. You can even print them out to add to your own family recipe book.

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