Smelter’s shawl knitting project

2 January 2025

Blog by artist, Carole McCourt

My community arts project was developed to creatively explore the smelting history of the North Pennines while connecting local communities through the shared experience of knitting. Knitting was chosen as the central artistic medium due to its deep cultural significance and accessibility. The shawl was envisioned as both a personal and collective tribute to the region’s industrial past, merging historical memory with creative expression.

The use of natural fibres, the use of knitted lead and the intricate design of the shawls symbolised the landscape’s rugged beauty and its smelting heritage. The aim was to engage participants of all skill levels, allowing them to create individual shawls that together would form a visual narrative of the region’s history, culminating in a final event that celebrated both the artistic and communal journey.

With the support of the bursary, multiple events and workshops were held with regional Women’s Institute groups, knitting, crafting and art groups as well as an open workshop at Rookhope to engage participants and guide them through the shawl-making process.

The project culminated in a walk from Rookhope Village Hall to Rookhope Arch, where participants wore their completed shawls, walking together to the historic site of the smelt mill.

The 40 completed shawls were featured in an exhibition at Bowlees Visitor Centre, alongside the work from the other community arts bursaries in the Land of Lead and Silver project. This exhibition highlighted both the historical and artistic elements of the shawls and provided a platform for participants to see their contributions showcased in a professional setting.

The project fostered a sense of community through shared creative work. Many participants expressed the joy of reconnecting with others post-pandemic and found knitting to be both a calming and sociable activity. Several WI groups became more connected through the shared experience of knitting, and individuals reported that the project gave them a renewed appreciation for both the craft of knitting and the history of their local area. The project provided a reflective space for people to connect with their heritage and express this through art.

Carol McCourt’s smelter’s shawl knitting project was part of the 2024 community arts programme for the Land of Lead and Silver project, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England.

The 2025 community arts bursaries applications will open in January 2025.