High-tech history: The H factor
September sees a week of events celebrating Norwich’s heritage at The Forum. Including the latest technology, pavement painting and re-enactments, the organisers want to dispel the myth that heritage is about dusty old buildings.
Photos: Sarah Cocke.
Organised by The Forum Trust and Norwich HEART (Heritage Economic and Regeneration Trust), and the Norwich Society, the week’s events – dubbed ‘The H Factor’ – are a hands-on investigation into Norwich’s past.
A photographic exhibition, with images taken by local photographer, Sarah Cocke, explores buildings which aren’t listed but are historically significant. The buildings had to meet five criteria to make the shortlist, such as being typical of their time. Controversially, County Hall is included on the list, a building many regard a blot on the landscape.
The UEA will present technology which puts Norwich’s heritage buildings in the palm of your hands, all in 3D, while visitors will be able to use QR codes in a high-tech treasure hunt.
The charity Sculpture for Norwich will be presenting a display of four models to chose from by nationally important artists for a public work of art to be placed in central Norwich. Visitors will be able to vote for their favourite.
Programme of events outside The Forum
Mon 5th Sep
The Yarnsmith of Norwich tells tales of times gone by. A brass ensemble from Norwich’s Chamber Orchestra Anglia will be playing at intervals with a main performance at lunchtime, from 1-1.30pm.
Tue 6 Sep 10am-12am & 1pm-3pm
Join artist Maggie Campbell in making your own sculpture inspired by the iconic Norwich 12 buildings.
Wed 7 Sep
A short presentation about 3D printing, as virtual models of Norwich’s heritage sites jump of the screen and into reality.
Thu 8 Sep
Join experts from the Norfolk Family History Society for a one-to-one lesson on tracing your family’s history. Listen to a fascinating collection of memories from the people of Norwich, with oral history recordings on childhood, schooldays, working life, everyday life, the Second World War and much more.
Sun 11 Sep
International award-winning artists Urban Canvas will create a pavement art outside The Forum. Using a 500 year old chalking technique, Urban Canvas invite people of all ages to roll up their sleeves to join in.
Sunday sees archers, pikemen and soldiers from Norwich and Norfolk Medieval Association taking over the Forum. The re-enactors will be bringing history alive by leading demonstrations, medieval crafts and showing their weapons before setting off for their encampment at Norwich Castle’s medieval festival, CastleFest the following weekend.
There is also a programme of daily talks running all week, which includes the launch of this year’s Heritage Open Days.
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