Od Arts Festival - Still and still moving

About

Od Arts Festival returns, from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 May, with a packed programme of art and community activity! The festival takes its name from the Od: [Od pronounced Odd] a crooked stream that meanders through the neighbouring villages of East and West Coker, Somerset, UK. Made possible with the generous support of public funding through the National Lottery by Arts Council England and the Heritage Lottery Fund, and led by Coker-based OSR Projects, Od Arts Festival 2023 – Still and still moving, takes its title from T.S Eliot’s poem East Coker, the second of his famous Four Quartets:

…Love is most nearly itself

When here and now cease to matter.

Old men ought to be explorers

Here or there does not matter

We must be still and still moving

Into another intensity

For a further union, a deeper communion

The festival will explore the different ways we navigate, move in and connect to the world around us, from ancient way-making and international trade to the almost imperceptible slow motion of plants and rocks.

Expect intriguing works in unusual locations across the two villages, providing an opportunity to meander and explore at your own pace. Along with activities including monument making, guided walks, bookbinding and a silent disco… just to name a few!

Festival director Simon Lee Dicker says, “we’re grateful for the support of our local communities and really excited by the line-up of artists we’ve got confirmed this year. We've partnered with Dawe’s Twineworks to commission Marcia Teusink, who is creating really fascinating new work that delves into some of the historical connections that span out from the Coker Canvas industries. Renowned artist Bedwyr Williams, who represented Wales at the Venice Biennale, and acclaimed filmmaker Jennet Thomas will both present special installations of their works, and across the festival venues we’ll be showing a total of 23 different artists, with work ranging from intricate drawings and colourful sculptures to thoughtful performances and activities to join in with – something for everyone really.”