Broad research into Herring.

A staple food source since the Middle Ages (the Domesday book references one of the earliest recordings of herring fishing in East Anglia), Herring facilitated an early feminist movement through the HerringLasses; bought fortune in abundance during the fishing boom in the early 20th Century; contributed to the decline of seaside towns from the 1970s; and remains an indicator of the growing effects of climate change. Not bad for a small oily fish – a “silver darling” that is still celebrated by local coastal communities every autumn!

Today there are stark comparisons to the history of herring fishing in the UK and current affairs including strikes over pay and working conditions, economic difficulties with the collapse of exports to Russia and overfishing.

Research is ongoing to identify key themes for future investigation.

With thanks to SPILL Think Tank (Artist Residency, 2022 and 2023), Britten Pears Arts (Creative Retreat, 2023) and Lowestoft Maritime Museum (Arts in Residence, 2023).