There Be Monsters
There Be Monsters
This unique project was inspired by the Map and Atlas collection within The National Archives. The aim was to use the devices and imaginary creatures inscribed on some of the oldest maps to inspire adults with experience of mental ill health. They created a sculpture that was unveiled in February 2005 and now has pride of place in the grounds of The National Archives.
There Be Monsters included workshops at The National Archives led by conservators, map specialists and members of the Outreach team for the service users from an organisation called Workshop & Company. These sessions provided participants with the opportunity to handle original documentation and to talk to experts about the conservation and care of these pieces of history. The project also involved skilled artists (mosaic, ceramic and model-making specialists) working with the group to enable them to design and build the finished piece.
Workshop & Company is an organisation that forms part of the Central and North West London Mental Health Trust and is based in Westminster. Its service users have a range of mental health problems and Workshop & Company offer a variety of services ranging from arts and skills-based workshops to practical support in escorting them to and from college. They aim to give people practical experience to build confidence and assist them back into community and work settings.
The project was a partnership project between The National Archives, Workshop & Company and was funded by Heritage Lottery Fund.
- Download the full report as a PDF (PDF, 1560.95kb)
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