Hadrian's Wall isn't the only place celebrating the region's Roman heritage in 2022, as a County Durham park is hosting a festival in honour of the Roman Goddess Minerva.
Hardwick Park, near Sedgefield, has a Temple of Minerva on its grounds which will become the centrepiece of a one-night-only art installation event - the first of its kind in the park.
The festival is part of County Durham's bid to become the UK City of Culture 2025, aiming to show that the county is an ideal place to host a variety of cultural events.
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Drawing inspiration from work by 18th century architect James Paine, when it was formerly the private gardens of John Burdon, composer and interdisciplinary artist Ed Carter has used the park's history to create pop-up installations of visual and sound artworks as well as live performances, which will be dotted around the park.
On Saturday March 19, the Festival of Minerva, named after the ancient Roman festival which would have took place on this date, will go ahead, where visitors can follow a trail to take in each of the art exhibitions.
Following the circular walk around the park’s lake, the Festival of Minerva will feature installations such as music playing from the tower of the Gothic Ruin - created in collaboration with the Sedgefield Handbell Ringers.
Visitors will also be able to sample a serving of black cherry ice cream or blackcurrant flavour sorbet at the former Banqueting Hall, a delicacy traditionally served to its 18th century guests.
Other installations include an original piece of music performed by three oboe players at the Gothic Seat, inspired by John Burdon’s coat of arms, as well as a perspective-defying infinity mirror installation by Studio Vertigo at the site of the former Bath House.
There is a second mirror at the Bono Retiro which fills a doorway that would have greeted visitors in John Burden's time. Behind the mirror will be the voice of poet Gillian Arnett reciting the Spider Poem, a piece written for Hardwick Park.
Taking place by the Temple of Minerva, the festival’s finale is inspired by the ancient poem Metamorphoses, written by Roman poet Ovid, which tells the tale of a weaving contest between Arachne and Minerva.
The finale will feature live poetry and music and finish with a fireworks display.
Ed Carter said: "I’ve absolutely loved my time here at Hardwick Park. The stunning location and the research I’ve delved into about the park’s history, as well as the cultural themes introduced by architect James Paine, have offered so many avenues to explore.
"It’s really interesting to think about the intentions that shaped those creative ideas, and it’s been a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the rejuvenation of the park as it has evolved from a private garden into an accessible public space."
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: "We are very happy to have had Ed Carter as our first artist-in-residence at Hardwick Park. This is one of the most beautiful settings in the county, with some fascinating architectural features and stunning vistas, so we are delighted to be bringing the Festival of Minerva to our park visitors. It will be the first event of its type here, but hopefully not the last.
"With its fascinating trail of unique installations, each inspired by a different theme of the park’s history, the Festival of Minerva will truly be and exciting night to remember and it is opportunities like this why the county is bidding for UK City of Culture 2025. If the county is successful in its bid, it will mean more funding and investment which will enable us to bring even more exciting opportunities like this to communities across the county."
The Festival of Minerva is free to attend and will take place on Saturday March 19 from 5pm. Visitors are advised to arrive no later than 5.30pm to allow time to follow the trail and gather on Temple Field for the event finale which starts at 6.40pm
