Asteroidea, a 2 meter diameter galaxy of starfish will be hung against the east window of Salthouse Church after a gap of 23 years. It was made by artists Margie Britz and Liz McGowan in 2003 as part of a group exhibition, but this time it will hang on its own. Evolving from and revolving around it will be a series of multi-media celestial/marine events.
“We took starfish from the bottom of the sea and threw them up into the air as a galaxy” says Margie Britz.
Asteroidia silhouette
Gazing at the stars inspires a sense of awe, and the artists want viewers to experience that awe in relation to these extraordinary sea creatures, along with their unique chalk reef habitat. As above, so below.
Asteroidea is the scientific name given to starfish. It comes from the Greek Aster, a star, and eidos, like. Starfish are very ancient creatures. They predate dinosaurs and have survived 5 mass extinctions. Every now and again, a combination of strong winds and high tides leave thousands of starfish stranded on the beach; unable to get back to the sea, they expire rapidly. These starfish were collected from local beaches between Holkham and Weybourne.
Asteroidia includes a supporting programme of music, projected image, storytelling, poetry, talks and workshops. Details below.
For all bookings, email margiecbritz@gmail.com
Please bring cash for refreshments.
Open daily Monday to Saturday 10am - 5.30pm
Sunday 11am - 5.30pm.
Supported by ncas and Norfolk County Council.
