The Stove NetworkAn Arts and Community Organisation
The Stove Network
inspired by a serendipitous experience in which artist Ben Edge stumbled across a Druid ceremony taking place on Tower Hill in central London, he has been researching the folklore and seasonal customs of the British Isles and was amazed to discover that there were such events taking place all over the Uk. Although he was not entirely conscience of it at the time, a new obsession had been born and he began travelling up and down the British Isles, extensively gathering source material and responding to his research through a new series of twenty paintings and a full length documentary film.
This body of work titled ‘Frontline Folklore’ was exhibited alongside a carefully curated selection of objects from the influential set designer, Simon Costin’s remarkable ‘Museum of British Folklore’ collection at the Crypt gallery of the St Pancras new church throughout June 2021, in an exhibition titled ‘Ritual Britain’ that attracted over 10,000 visitors with extensive media coverage and viral exposure across social media.
Edge is predominately a figurative artist interested in folklore and story telling, whose paintings and film work depict the extraordinary lives of ordinary people. He believes his interests originate from his childhood, where he grew up around colourful and eccentric family members who would tell him remarkable stories.
Special thanks to Ben Edge for his permission to share the film.
More about Ben Edge is available online HERE.
Reel to Real Cinema is a monthly film space in the Stove Cafe, featuring an eclectic mixture of conversational films – from artist made shorts to feature length documentaries, locally made to international cinema. A space for discussion and thought-provoking films, you are welcome to join us after the film for a short discussion about the themes from this month’s selection. The Stove Cafe will be open from 5.30pm – 6:45pm with a special pre-film dinner option alongside hot drinks and cakes.
Access Information: Level Access in rear of building through adjacent close to left-hand side of the Cafe (facing the front of the building).
To ensure your experience with us is as best as it can be, please do let us know if you have any specific access requirements and we’d be happy to help. Please email Kevin or Sal on: [email protected] or phone 01387 252435 and speak with one of our team.
We are able to provide walk-throughs of the building before attending our events as well as assign seating before your arrival.