Art installation at Newark Castle to mark one year since start of first coronavirus lockdown opens to public

An art installation at Newark Castle to mark one year since the start of the first coronavirus lockdown began on March 23 of last year has opened to the public.

Off Mute: Local Voices From A Year Like No Other blends audio and visual elements to explore the experiences of people who have gone above and beyond for the community during the pandemic.

The project is supported by Newark and Sherwood District Council and Arts Council England’s Cultural Recovery Fund, and has been curated by The Acorns Project, a recently launched initiative to bring together cultural activity across the district.

It takes Newark and Sherwood ‘off mute’ by amplifying local voices and telling residents’ stories from the past 12 months.

Visitors are encouraged, as they explore the castle grounds, to think and reflect on what they have personally missed and gained during this extraordinary time.

A soundscape greets visitors at the left entrance to the castle with local voices speaking about their experiences.

A large video screen on the inner castle wall features interviews with local people, including business owners, creatives and volunteers, who have supported their communities within Newark and Sherwood.

The bandstand houses giant panels that will ask visitors to reflect on four questions about their recent experiences and feature responses gathered from the community in recent months.

The installation will be in the castle grounds until Monday, from 9am to 7pm.