Marjan: The journey of a Dutch woman, a sculptor and an active citizen who has been in England for more than forty years

In this episode, Marjan, a Dutch sculptor who has been in the UK for more than four decades, explores Lancashire landscape and society through the eyes of an artist and active citizen. Arrived in Liverpool for the first time in 1978, for a summer voluntary work opportunity, she returned in 1979 for what she thought was going to be a gap year. However, she remained in the UK and eventually set her roots in Darwen. An established artist in the local, national and international scene, her attachment to Lancashire can be appreciated through her art, often inspired by the local landscape and culture. She is also an active citizen aspiring to make a difference through her involvement in the local community of Darwen.

If you want to know more about Marjan’s art, follow these links:

·        Website: https://www.marjanwouda.com/public-sculpture/dandy

·        Instagram (marjan wouda sculpture): www.instagram.com/marjanwoudasculpture)

·        Facebook: @marjan.wouda.sculpture

Interview content:

[00:03]: Arriving in England the first time

[00:06]: About losing control in life and art

[00:08]: England a place where all things seemed to be possible

[00:11]: Life and landscapes in Darwen

[00:14]: The social history of post-industrial cities in Lancashire

[00:16]: Life in the little village of Aduard, in the Netherlands

[00:19]: Childhood memories in a farm

[00:20]: Marjan’s art in Lancashire and beyond

[00:22]: Sources of inspiration and meanings of Marjan’s art

[00:27]: The role of art in Marjan’s life

[00:29]: The responsibilities of an artist and a citizen

[00:30]: Learning about British society through a gardening club and a refugee group

[00:34]: The pros and cons of of a globalised world

[00:35]: Has British society changed in the last forty years?

[00:36]: The Netherlands for Marjan

[00:39]: Feeling of belonging