Category Archives: WoW Projects

Can you imagine a NEWSeum – a Community-Driven exhibition centre, a totally NEW way forward?

Exciting News about our Journey to Create a Community-Driven Exhibition Center  (Scroll down for update)

Hello, World of Water supporters!

We’re thrilled to share some exciting updates about our mission to create a one-of-a-kind Community-Driven Exhibition Center, a place where history unfolds in real-time and is shared by those who live it.

What’s in the Plan?
We’re envisioning a dynamic NEWSeum – an Exhibition Center, and Film Studio combined that will capture history as it happens, with a focus on community-driven storytelling.

How Far Have We Come?
Our progress has been remarkable:

  • Building Surveyor report: ✔️
  • Five-year income/expenditure sheet: ✔️
  • Project Inception Document (PID) published: ✔️
  • Community Questionnaire published: ✔️
  • Fundraiser appointed: ✔️
  • Built Heritage Officer contacted: ✔️
  • Matchfunding secured: 50%  ✔️
  • Full Planning Permission  ✔️
  • Listed Building Consent   ✔️
  • Two Project Partners on board  ✔️
  • Building materials specification ✔️
  • Exhibition layout materials specification ✔️

What’s on the Horizon?

We’re actively working on filling in grant application forms and:

  • Gathering quotes from local builders
  • Meeting potential partners in Newtown
  • Sending an Expression of Interest (EoI) to the Heritage Lottery Fund

Stay Informed!
For the latest updates, follow us on Twitter @_Grant or drop us an email at:

We’d love to hear your thoughts, support, and suggestions.

Between the Exhibitions:
While we prepare for the exhibitions, our research and education efforts continue at the WoW Field Centre. We explore various aspects of water, including its chemistry, its role in nature, and its impact on our lives. We delve into topics like water in health, industry, art, and even its presence in outer space and terraforming.

On Tour? Yes!
Some exhibitions will go on tour, so stay tuned for opportunities to be part of history as part of the NEWSeum Team. Join us, write about news, showcase news, film news, and be the news!

Together, we’re making waves in the world of water education and research. Join us on this incredible journey as we bring history to life and help keep our future alive and healthy.

Warm regards,

UPDATE:

A Journey of Progress Towards a Water Heritage Education and Research Center

Dear Friends of World of Water,

We are thrilled to share an exciting update on our journey towards establishing a Water Heritage Education and Research Center! The path we’ve embarked on has been filled with determination, collaboration, and unwavering support from our incredible stakeholders and friends like you.

A Step Closer to Our Vision: As you may recall, we were on the verge of acquiring a property in Newtown, ‘The Old Malthouse’, for our visitor center, a place where we could bring the rich local history of Newtown’s water ways to life through engaging educational displays and immersive experiences. While the final steps to secure the Malthouse were not taken, we came remarkably close, and it’s a testament to the dedication of our team and the local support we received from both:

Stuart Owen, CEO, OpenNewtown (Going Green for a Living Community Land Trust Ltd) and  Deborah Gerrard, Chief Officer, Dementia Matters in Powys (Charitable incorporated organisation 1172335)

Gratitude for Your Support: We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey. Your encouragement, unwavering faith, and commitment to our cause have been the driving force behind our progress.

Fostering Enthusiasm: The enthusiasm within our organization for the Water Heritage Education and Research Center is stronger than ever. We remain steadfast in our mission to preserve, protect, and educate about  global water heritage. Our vision of creating a hub where the past, present, and future of water come together continues to inspire us daily.

Looking Ahead: While we may have encountered a few bumps along the way, we see them as opportunities for growth and learning. We are dedicated to continuing our efforts, exploring new location possibilities, and securing the further support to bring our charity’s vision to life. Location suggestions welcome.

Stay Tuned: We invite you to stay closely connected with us as we move forward. Together, we will make our Water Heritage Education and Research Center a reality. We will keep you updated on our progress, share stories of water heritage, and involve you in our educational initiatives.

Once again, thank you for being part of the World of Water family. Your support fuels our passion, and we can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next.

With heartfelt appreciation,

email:

or  Get in touch with us where you can leave Comments, thoughts, support and help suggestions

List of potential topics in the World of Water Heritage Centre:

  1. Chemistry + Physics of WATER:
    • Water’s chemical properties and molecular structure
    • Experiments showcasing water’s unique physical properties
  2. WATER in Nature:
    • Aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity
    • Geological formations related to water, such as rivers and lakes
  3. Manipulation of WATER:
    • Historical water transportation methods (e.g., canals)
    • Water engineering and infrastructure development
  4. Pollution & Natural WATER Hazards:
    • Exhibits on water pollution sources and prevention
    • Natural disasters like floods and droughts
  5. WATER in the Home:
    • Evolution of plumbing and water supply systems
    • Household water conservation methods and technology
  6. WATER for Leisure:
    • Recreational water activities and their history (swimming, boating, etc.)
    • Water parks and their development over time
  7. WATER Fountains & Wells:
    • Historic and cultural significance of fountains
    • Well traditions and stories
  8. WATER in Food Production:
    • Evolution of irrigation techniques
    • Displays on fishing and aquaculture practices
    • Agricultural and aquacultural water management
  9. WATER in Health:
    • Historical medical practices involving water (hydrotherapy)
    • Modern water-related health technologies and treatments
  10. WATER in Sport:
    • Water sports through history (rowing, swimming, etc.)
    • Sporting events related to water (Olympic swimming, sailing)
  11. WATER in the Body:
    • The importance of water in the human body
    • Hydration and its impact on health
  12. WATER for Measurement:
    • Historical water measurement tools and methods
    • Modern instruments for monitoring water quality and quantity
  13. WATER for Industry & Commerce:
    • Industrial water use throughout history
    • Water’s role in various industries (e.g., textile, manufacturing)
  14. WATER for Transport:
    • Maritime history and ships’ development
    • Waterways as transportation routes
  15. WATER for Power:
    • Historical water wheels and their significance
    • Water’s role in modern power generation (hydropower, tidal power, cooling systems)
  16. WATER in Shape, Growth & Form:
    • Water’s influence on landscapes and ecosystems
    • Hydrological cycles and their impact on Earth’s features
  17. WATER in Cleaning, Cutting & Cooling:
    • Water’s use in cleaning methods
    • Industrial cutting techniques using water
    • Cooling systems and their importance in various applications
  18. Water in Fire Fighting:
    • Historical firefighting methods involving water
    • Modern firefighting equipment and techniques
  19. WATER in Finance:
    • Historical water trade routes and their economic impact
    • Water as a commodity in financial markets
  20. WATER in Religion, Beliefs, Symbolism:
    • Spiritual and religious significance of water
    • Water-related symbols and rituals in different cultures
  21. WATER in Stories, Myths, Legends:
    • Folklore and myths involving water deities and creatures
    • Stories related to famous water bodies
  22. WATER in SPACE & terraforming:
    • Space exploration and water discovery on other celestial bodies
    • Terraforming projects and their use of water
  23. WATER in Art, Photography, Crafts, Film, Sculpt:
    • Water-themed artworks and photography
    • Water-related crafts and sculptures
  24. WATER in Literature, Poetry, Song:
    • Water-themed literature, poetry, and songs from different cultures
  25. WATER in Decay & Recycling through Rust & Rot:
    • The natural processes of decay and rusting
    • Water’s role in recycling and sustainability
  26. WATER in Politics, Law & Social Power:
    • Historical water rights and conflicts
    • Water-related policies and regulations

These exhibits provide a comprehensive exploration of water’s diverse roles and significance throughout history and across various fields of human endeavor.

 

When Peter met Grant

The IOL (Image of Learning) Project

With the tremendous support of Peter Scott, our charity’s outreach prog. expanded in 1995 to include educational workshops for schools and at events.

In 2011, Peter also helped in the development of our imprint, ‘Little People Books’.

“I see this as crucial to the development of educational, environmental and moral values within children, and central to the aims of World of Water” [Comment at the time from Andy Hare . 1995]

Our IOL Project presently offers 2 workshops in:

1.    Motivation.
2.    Evolving your own Life Story.


BACKGROUND EXPERIENCE

Peter & Grant’s studies, skills and project experience include:

Art [Practical] M.A. (University of Central England ) Visual Communication

Education [Theoretical] B.A. (Open University )  Arts & Humanities

Continual  Professional  Development:

‘Management Development & Team Leadership’ [Beeches College]
‘Computing Software :  QuarkXpress; Photoshop’  [Bournville College]
‘Print Making’          [Birmingham Print Workshop]
‘TV / Video Prod Course’   [Birmingham University]
‘Web Design’            [Inst. of Art and Design, University of Central England]
‘TV Prod Course’       [Selly Oak School]
‘Business Funding’     [Birmingham Chamber of Commerce]
‘Business Marketing’  [University of Aston in Birmingham, Small Business Centre]
‘Pottery Course’.         [Bournville College]
‘Educational Dance’    [Midland Arts Centre]
‘Digital Publishing:  Adobe Illustrator; Freehand’. [Aston ITEC]
‘Team Leadership – Live Wire Business Growth Challenge’ [Aberdovey Outward Bounds Centre]
‘Calligraphy Course’    [Midhurst School]
‘Writing in Education’ [Winterbourne College]
‘Public Speaking and Chairmanship’    [Birmingham School of Speech & Drama]
‘Peter Pan’  (Set Construction and acting).
Wuthering Heights (Set Design) [Crescent Theatre, Birmingham]
Trained Role Model. Welsh Government’s Dynamo Scheme. (Young Entrepreneurship)

Projects include:

Birmingham City Council: Visualisation of the City Pedestrianisation Scheme,
Design of Educational Visitor Centre in Ireland (Peat Workings)
Designs for School Literature in six languages for Swedish Paper Manufacturer
Digital Imagery adaptations for Ikon Gallery with Matt Fisher and Chris Stirrup
Birmingham:  Digital Imaging & Animation Prog. Design, supported by Photopack/  West Midlands Arts
Handsworth:   Opportunity to explore numeracy through sound, story, role play, icons, art, movement ; in conjunction with Birmingham Education & Business Partnership
Whitton School: Illuminating and Re-writing their  ‘300 years in the making’ during Big Arts Week.
Bordesley Green:  Out of School Hours extracurricular Workshops on Survival
Lee Bank:   Strengthening Community  through documenting & dissemination  – Human Facilities Management
Robin Hood School : Self-empowerment  – ‘Mind over Mouse’ Part of ‘Teachers and Artists  Working Together Scheme’.
Trainer/ Employer for Schools ‘Work Placement Schemes’
YTS Trainer/Employer – design and implementation of an extensive on the job training Scheme in Creative Technical Imaging.
Folio and Career Surgeries for individual Art and Communication degree Students through B.I.G.
IT skill ‘Return to Work’ Training for volunteers from Birmingham Volunteers Bureau
Freelance Storyboarding Pop Videos/ TV Commercials/ Print

Timeline (bio)

1965:  Produced First 8 mm Animated Films  (one survives in WoW film archive)
1974 – 1999  Teaching 25 years  [Year 1 to Year 6] Special Needs E2L Imparting Active Teaching Subject Range: Art; Craft; Science; Health; Literacy & Language; Mathematics; Sport Mentoring 19 to 21 Years.
1974 – 1980 :  Aquaculturist to present
1976:  Partner: Ginger Man Studios (Arts and Crafts Designers)
1977:  Lyricist for S.Wales Rock Group ‘Calix’
1978 to present,  Co-founder, Chair and Trustee Reg. Educational Charity ‘World of Water’
1983:  Founded ‘Think Tank’. Thinking with action on people’s aims.
1983:  Agent for DJ TrevorT and TVRT Recording Studios
1983 to present: Graphic Authoring; Story Boarding; Information Graphics,  Illustration;  Art; Design; Print; Workshops
1983   Format Design for TV Series: : Prog. pitch to BBC TV (Michael Garrod/ Continuing Education Department)
1986:  Joined Griffiths Reaney Design Associates – Interior Designers,
1987:  Co-Founder and Director of Design Workshop (Architects and Int.Designers)
1988:  Guest Lecturer, Faculty of the Built Environment, University of Central England
1989:  Founding Director of Hickton Madeley Interiors.
1992:  Authored stage pantomime ‘KK & Genie Mouse’ for Crescent Theatre, Birmingham.
1992:  Director of MacLaren Marketing, Wolverhampton
1993:  ‘Little People Books’ imprint founded
1993:  Co-Founder and Director of ‘Karavadra Multimedia’
1995:  ‘Image of Learning’ founded
1996:  Creative Director : MIPF (Midlands Independent Production Forum based at VIVID, Birmingham) Film:  “10/34” for B’ham Film Festival
1996:   Web Site Design and Gallery Installation for  ‘The Nine Tenets’/ Café Surf
1996:   Authored: ‘Ring in the New’ Animation short pitched to B.F.I. at VIVID
1996:   Authored: Prog. pitch to Sky TV (The Alterers)
1998:   Lead Artist. Digital Arts Programme (Gallery 37 Birmingham) (Archive: Evaluation Sheet)
1999:  (Jan. Feb. Mar.) Workshops on Weather shown in art & photography. Yarnfield School
1999:  Co-refereed the successful ‘Art and the Internet’ Millennium Bid with Liz Macgregor, Ikon Gallery
2004:   Artist in Residence at Whitton School, for ‘BIG Arts Week’
2005:   Artist in Residence at John Beddoes School, Presteigne, during ‘BIG Arts Week’
2012:   Training. Welsh Government’s Dynamo Role Models Scheme for schools.
2016:   Co-founder @PoetryEvent  (Poetry in Presteigne)
2019:   Storytelling. Knighton Literary Festival

Live Events:

1983   Who’s Book is it Anyway, Birmingham Nature Centre
1997   Water on the Beach, Brighton (Part of High Tide Event)
1996   ‘Inspector Clue Bod Investigates’ Birmingham City Council
Discovery Day
2009:  Storytelling. 2nd Knighton & District Serendipity Festival
2016:  Support for Spring Greens Fair
2017:  Water Poster exhibited at Hereford River Fest.
2017:  Clue Hunt. Knucklas17 festival.
2018:  Sponsored ‘Spring Greens Fair’ School days
2019:  Compere. Cabaret. Llanfair Waterdine.
2019:  “Air Aware” schools workshop for Spring Greens Fair schooldays

Publications & Reports:

Harrier Comics
Eddy Champion Comic (1995)
AV Producer: ‘Tapman and Pluggy’, with the support of Education Dept., Severn Trent Water. 1995
Medieval Pond Culture (with Casey, A. and the late great Richard St George)
The e-brain (1994)


Experience of Materials and their Application:

Clay sculpt;   Plaster reliefs;   Plasters in Construction; Concrete (carving);   Natural Construction Materials;
Computer Software for Image Manipulation. Architectural Delineation.
Scale Drawing;
Papier Mache (puppets); Metal (sculpt); Wood (constructions); Water Colour Paints / Inks;
Gardening, Landscaping, Water Use and Conservation

Broadcasts:

Television Interviews:   1984 OB with Dan Cherrington (BBC Research  History of Monastic Carp Culture);
Pebble Mill at One (OB Fresh Fish Buying)
Guest Radio Slots:         Radio WM (Phone-in); BRMB; Radio Bristol (Phone-in)
Community Radio:         BHBN.

Animation Projects:

Bookbod’s Pizza Recipe (Stopframe)

Solo Exhibitions:

1979:     ‘Piscatorial Memorabilia’, Aber-Gwen Visitor Centre, South Wales
1982/83:  Nature Exh. Centre (Birmingham Museum  & Art Galleries)
1982:    Paintings of the Built Environment, Birmingham Midland  Institute
1982:    When Santa met Neptune, Rackhams, Birmingham
1983:    Future of Aquaculture, Brighton Exhibition and Conference Centre,
Sussex
1983:   Hellensborough Museum,  Scotland
1983:   Dumbarton Museum & Libraries
1983:   ‘Enviromental Awareness’ Exh. in conjunction with Whirligig
Theatre Co.  Alexander Theatre.                 ( See Picture on Right > )
1985:   ‘The Water Palace’, Central Library, Birmingham
1986:   Wednesbury Art Gallery & Museum, Wednesbury
1986:   Art Gallery, Rugby Library, Rugby
1986:   ‘Wet Harvest’, The Bass Museum, Burton-on-Trent
1986:   Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Coventry
1986:   Warwickshire  Museum, Warwick
1987:   City Museum & Art Gallery, Stoke-on-Trent
1991:   ‘The influence of Fish in Design’, Birmingham Midland Institute.
1992:   Alternative Perspectives, Mine Gallery, Birmingham
1995:   Paintings of the built environment. Birmingham Midland Institute.
2011:   h.Art (Herefordshire Art Week) exhibition at WoW Field Centre.

Event management

Lord Mayor opening of Water Palace Exh.. Birmingham, Central Library
Poetry and Cooking workshops during first Birmingham Readers & Writers
Festival

Group Exhibitions:

University of Central England
Lichfield Guild Hall
International Convention Centre
1992:   ‘Friends Show’, Royal Birmingham Society of Artists, New St. Birmingham.
1993:   ‘Plant Crossing’, Birmingham Botanical Gardens Gallery
1993:   Choice Gallery, Birmingham
1995:   Earth Centre, Conisborough
1996:   Brighton Festival
1996:   The Nine Tenets of Tomlinson and Jessé, Café Surf, Birmingham
1996:   ‘Who’s Book is it Anyway’, Part of Birmingham Readers & Writers
Festival

Online Projects

1999:   Nine Tenets Part 11. Writings to accompany the work of OliverTomlinson M.A..
2000:   ‘Contemporary Italian and Spanish graphic design and folk art on Citrus Fruit Wrappers from 1930’s’
2002    ‘The Art of it’. Online writings to remember the work of the Late Jonathan Inglis.

Writings:

‘Value of Closure’
‘The Elements of Sequential Art’
‘Use of ‘Story’ within Educative Process’
Writing & illustrating series of ten pre-school picture books.

Commissions: (abridged):

Birmingham City Council Landscape Practice, B.B.C., Central Independent Television, Austin Knight Advertising, Black Country Development Corporation, Black Theatre Co-operative, Bugle Films Ltd., Cadbury Schweppes, Centro, Custard Factory (Digbeth), Forward Trust, Freestyle Productions, Gillette, GKN, Granada Leisure, Groundwork, Healthy Birmingham 2000, Ilford Photo Ltd., Jaguar, King Edward VI Foundation, Kokuma Dance Theatre Company, Letts Educational, MEB, Mercia Sound, Midland Bank, SCS (Specialist Computer Services), Structured Training, Switch Design, Tibbatts Interior Design Group, Training and Creative Resources, West Midlands Travel.
(Full list available on request)

Memberships:

NAA (National Association of Artists)
NUT (National Union of Teachers)
BAT (Birmingham Arts Trust)
VIVID (Formerly Birmingham Centre for Media Arts)
1995: Crescent Theatre Staff Member: Set Design, Theatre Marketing.
1995  National Small Press Association
1996 to 2011: Acting Secretary of “Birmingham Image Generators’
1996:  Steering committee of the HUB (Birmingham)
1998 to 2000: Birmingham Education Arts Forum (BEAF)
Book Packagers Association
Article 31 Action Network
Hon. Member :European Society of Perspectivists
2001 “Grwp Amineiddwyr Cymru” (Welsh Animation Group, Cardiff)
2000 “Creative Network” University of Central England
2005 “Powys Arts Forum”
2018 – present:  Rhyme & Tell storytelling group. Bishop’s Castle

Illuminated letters (below) produced by Whitton School 2004