Wayfarer People
Kathleen Somers
About Kathleen
Born in Mexborough, raised in Denaby Main as a resident on the now disappeared Loversall Street.
Kathleen (Kate) is the mother of one of Wayfarer People project artists, Dominic Somers. A few years ago, she took her son on a walk around Denaby Main inspiring this project in many ways when she came to life to share memories of old and some of the formative places from her childhood like Denaby Crags. Like many growing up in the 1950’s and 60’s her world seemed like living in monochrome in Denaby Main with the heavy industry and surround mines. Kathleen was often living in a life she wanted to escape from and was stopped by her parents from following her artist onward education despite the support of some inspiring teachers. Many years later she would fulfil her ambitions as a mature student studying Fine Art at Sheffield Hallam.
Wayfarer People | Kathleen Somers, Denaby
“It was a surprise to be asked to be involved with the Wayfarer People project and a pleasure to take part even if it felt a little self-indulgent being filmed/focused on for hours but certainly enjoyable. To go back to Denaby and wander the areas I was born and brought up. To go back in remembrance with some of my memories, history and to interact with the creative spirits that are Dominic, Helen and James. Through their guidance I spoke of feelings and events from such a long time ago, this was somewhat therapeutic as we walked and talked around Denaby main. Covering streets that have long gone and only the stone steps left of my Balby Street Junior School. The tiny pit houses, church, shops and the wonderful swing park on the crags where we played all gone, but still alive in my memories.”
“So, it’s a curious thing to see yourself on film, outside of yourself, watching her/me wandering musing on the past and present. The final edit of the film does not disappoint, Helen’s poem is emotionally touching and overlays James’s moving and clever filmmaking along with Dominic’s creative facilitation. I didn’t know what to expect when I agreed to take part but I loved taking part and working with the artists, I love the finished film a more than great piece of art.”
Kathleen Somers
