We were delighted to be given the opportunity to be one of the first to make use of The MET – the new Mobile Event Tent in Preston City Centre on Friday June 3rd, the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee bank holiday. It is a fascinating structure and makes a wonderful new addition to creative event space in Preston, although being new there were, as could be expected, a few minor teething issues but these were mostly overcome by the great events team from Preston City Council.
We ran a few activities during the time we were there, including the always popular life drawing, with our lovely model Ruby. Oxheys artists Evelyn and Caroline were also there providing on the hoof workshops for those interested in making using arts and crafts materials. As was Worldwise Samba Drummer’s bandleader Dr Jon Aveyard, running a shaker maker workshop. The samba band were also there to perform.
It started relatively quietly as being a new venue, not many people were aware of The MET or that it was open or even how to reach it. That in itself was a little tricky due to torrential rain leaving the surrounding unsurfaced site completely waterlogged, so entry proved a little difficult. The Worldwise Samba Drummers got things off to a great start however by going outside and performing under the canopy by the Wallace & Gromit bench. That attracted attention and soon people were coming to investigate and to enjoy the band. the acoustics under the canopy were superb and sound travelled all across the surrounding area.
A steady trickle of visitors followed, with many taking the opportunity to take part in some printmaking or textile bag making activities and some joining in the life drawing with model Ruby. Others, inspired by the samba band, made shakers using beans, dried fruits, nuts and containers and learned from bandleader Jon how to make samba rhythms.
It was a fun event and we thank Preston City Council for giving us the opportunity to be one of the first to use The MET and for providing some funding to do so. We look forward to seeing what other events and activities it will host over the coming weeks.
