Green Men Crafting Exhibition

Way back in the early spring, a competition was launched at Southwell Minster – people were invited to create a ‘green man’ inspired by the incredible and world-renowned medieval carvings in the Minster’s Chapter House.

During lockdown, the competition was put on hold, but crafters from around the county worked on their creations and all entries are now gathered in a small exhibition in the Minster.

Diana Ives, Education Officer, says: “The creativity on display is amazing – there are knitted, crocheted and felted green men. One is in the form of a balaclava! I wonder what those skilled craftsmen of 700 years ago would have made of this new work that their artistry inspired. It’s wonderful to have been able to bring this work together, despite the limitations of covid, and hold this exhibition.”

Currently, the actual carvings cannot be viewed due to essential conservation work, which began in June, funded by a substantial grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. However, it is hoped that this creative endeavour will be enjoyed by visitors and whet their appetites to come back and see the ‘real thing’ when the Chapter House reopens.

The two winning entries are Catherine Hewitt’s wall hanging and Libby Clark’s knitted creation, chosen by the judge, 10 year old Art and Nature lover, Isaac Roberts. He chose the winners for their attention to detail and because they were original in design.

The Minster is currently open between 11am and 3pm daily and covid-secure measures are in place. To find out more about the Leaves Project as well as Minster opening hours visit www.southwellminster.org