Inspired by the famous Great Chases led by the Prince Bishops, Beasts of the Warren explores contemporary deer stalking in and around Weardale, once the second largest hunting ground in England. The Bishops’ right to hunt large game, particularly deer, was a jealously guarded privilege, and ownership of hunting land, governed by Forest Law, provided economic power and social domination.
Unlike the pomp and pageantry of the Bishops’ Great Chases, contemporary deer stalking is so discrete that most of us will never come into contact with it. Beasts of the Warren is a gentle portrait of this highly skilled, quiet, solitary pursuit that requires an intimate knowledge of the land, stealth and hours of patience.
Beasts of The Warren was commissioned for the FebFest Artists Trail at Auckland Castle and was installed in the grounds from 23rd May-23rd June 2013.
An image from the series was selected for Art in the Woods, Holmfirth Arts Festival and was installed in Holme Styes Wood from 12th-22nd June 2014.
