About This Event

Explore the remnants and lore of the centuries old Netley Abbey with artist and researcher Lucie Smith. Explore the remnants and lore of the centuries old Netley Abbey with artist and researcher Lucie Smith. You’ll be encouraged to look closely at the surface of the ruins to discover traces of humans passed, where we’ll make rubbings using graphite and newsprint paper to document our discoveries. You’ll also have the chance to take plenty of photographs and make small sketches as we go. While learning about the many characters and infamous tales of the site, we’ll explore the often overlooked details of ruined monuments, thinking about how nature prevails and what this can symbolise. Throughout the walk we’ll discover hidden sounds and life growing in unexpected places, acknowledging nature’s presence within the site in its ever-changing state, spanning almost 800 years. About the artist: Lucie is a conceptual artist and facilitator based in Southampton, working in sculpture, installation, drawing and lens-based media. By exploring narratives of lost voices, fragmented histories and 'place' as entity, she uses symbolic fibres and materials to create works with an overarching focus on wounding and reclamation. It is her belief that we must draw attention to what came before so as to situate ourselves within the present.​ Lucie is currently studying a Masters in Contemporary Art and Archaeology with the University of the Highlands. Current research surrounds matrilineal heritage, ecological/archaeological feminism, and the esoteric. She has a keen interest in local history, genealogy, object biographies and archive excavation. Alongside her arts practice, Lucie works as a self-employed arts educator and producer, working with communities and individuals, as well as facilitating on behalf of organisations in Southampton and beyond. www.luciesmithart.com https://www.zestartscollective.com/artists/lucie-smith On the Day We will meet: At the edge of Netley Abbey car park What3words: https://w3w.co/plays.supper.sands By Bike - There are rails to lock bikes close to the Abbey Hall Recreation Centre which is opposite the abbey. By Bus - Bluestar 15 closest stop St Edwards Church, Grange Road. a 5 in walk away. By Train -Netley station is around a 20 minute walk away from the abbey, offering routes from Southampton, Fareham and more. Parking - There is a small car park at the Abbey. Additional parking can be found at Abby Hall a 5 min walk away. Please wear suitable clothes for the weather and suitable footwear for walking on various surfaces, enclosed footwear recommended. Bring along: A bottle of water Sunhat, sun glasses and suncream Camera and or phone. Please Note: Walk grade: Easy Who should attend: Adults and children aged 11+ Sorry pets are not allowed to join a led walk unless they are a guide or assistance dog. Child friendly: Suitable for children aged 11+. Any under 18s attending any of the activities must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. Walk distance: 1km Facilities: The closet toilet facilities are available at Abby Hall Recreation Centre which is opposite the abbey, although opening times are not guaranteed. Accessible: Accessible for all, however there is only one area of seating on site. Anyone who might need to sit and rest is recommended to bring along a portable seat. There are some uneven parts of the grounds at the abbey and, whilst we will do our best to avoid these, please wear shoes that are sensible for walking. Wheelchair access is possible for most of the site.

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