For centuries Londoners have existed beside a series of
waterways which have shaped the city and people within it. The history of this
relationship and the art that is has inspired are the focus of major
exhibition, ‘Secret Rivers’ at the
Museum of London’s Docklands venue. As a Company, the Water Conservators have
assisted in the research undertaken to build the exhibition and the Water
Conservation Trust have provided financial support. It was appropriate then
that I joined with Past Masters Roger North (also Chair of the WCT), Peter Hall
and Mike Williamson to be given an exclusive private tour just after its
opening earlier this week.
Secret Rivers –
which is free entry - uses archaeological artefacts, art,
photography and film to reveal stories of life by London’s rivers, streams, and
brooks, exploring why many of them were lost over time.
Historic and contemporary artworks from artists, poets and
authors also show how London’s rivers have played an important role in the
city’s imaginations. Previously unseen artefacts from excavations of the River
Fleet and elsewhere hint at the diverse industrial, economic and religious
roles these rivers have played over the centuries.
The intriguing histories of the River Effra, Fleet,
Neckinger, Lea, Wandle, Tyburn, Walbrook and Westbourne all feature in the
exhibition. Each river highlights a broader theme such as poverty, industry,
development, effluence, manipulation, activism, religion and restoration. We
were shown around by Museum Assistant Katherine Hoare who was able to add some
additional facts. For our part, us old ‘Wateries’ were able to give some
further details gained from a lifetime of work in the sector. It is a
fascinating exhibition and well worth the trip out on the DLR to visit it.
Further details can be found at www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands
The exhibition runs until the October half-term.
The Water Conservators look forward to working with the
Museum again as it prepares to move its main exhibition space on London Wall to
its new home in the former Smithfield Market building.
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