Stigmata Forks, Stoke Sub Hamdon Priory

The large tithe barn within The Priory complex, a rare and unique group of medieval domestic and agricultural buildings, was the focus of this contemporary craft project. The title ‘Gather-ing’ references the function of a barn as a space to collect/bring/gather people, animals and crops, as well as a symbolic meeting place to gather for ritual celebration. Curated by Craftspace, artists Stewart Easton , Jacky Oliver, Helen Snell and Gillian Widden were commissioned to make new work made in response to the site. Part of Somerset Art Works’ creative programme Momentum, funded by Arts Council England Lottery Funding. I wanted to explore the underlying tensions and contradictions between pagan and Christian rituals surrounding fertility, sex, birth and harvest. The relationship between the ten forks is inspired by notions of social and moral hierarchies, each farm giving a tenth of their produce to the Church in a material and spiritual exchange.