Canaletto-Inspired Collaboration and Creative Workshops at Tatton Park

Tatton Park is thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration with Abandon Normal Devices (AND) as part of the Impossible Perspectives project, which brings together CAN, an architecture and ideas studio, and Peut-Porter, a design collective, for a unique series of workshops and creative activities. This initiative is part of an innovative XR (Extended Reality) development and commissioning programme in partnership with Cheshire East Council. The project draws inspiration from the iconic works of the Italian painter Canaletto, whose masterpieces are part of the National Trust’s collection at Tatton’s Mansion.

Impossible Perspectives

Made possible with Art Fund support through their Reimagine programme and with public funds from Arts Council England and Cheshire East Council, this ambitious piece of work promises to create rich immersive experiences, blending the physical and digital in new ways for visitors.

“We are excited to commission CAN and Peut-Porter for this unique arts engagement opportunity at Tatton Park, which will help us develop innovative XR led immersive experiences for our visitors in 2026. This is a unique chance to explore Tatton Park’s collections, parkland, gardens, and mansion, to find out about the fascinating story of how ‘Canaletto came to Cheshire’ and be part of an exciting new arts venture in this wonderful setting.” Carole Hyde – Head of Rural & Cultural Economy, Cheshire East Council & Tatton Park

Inviting visitors to share their ideas.

Visitors to Tatton Park on Saturday, 28th September 2024 will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the artistic legacy of Canaletto through two interactive workshops that promise to ignite creativity and offer new perspectives on historical art and narratives.

Collaging Canaletto - You and Your Own Impossible Perspective
Time: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Location: The Knutsford Room, Tatton Park Stableyard
Step into the intricate landscapes of Venice as depicted by Canaletto and create your own digital collage inspired by his precise and detailed perspectives. Participants will engage in a creative process that blends history with modern digital techniques, culminating in a unique "tourist" photo set within their newly created digital world. (Suitable for ages 5+, approximate duration of 40 minutes to fully explore the activity.)

See Me Appear - Who Are You, Elizabeth Egerton?
Time: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Tatton Park Mansion
Explore the untold stories of the women of Tatton Park, particularly the Egerton women, through this engaging workshop led by Peut-Porter. Visitors can engage in speculative re-visioning of the past, using immersive tools to imagine and contribute to the fictional narratives of these historical figures. (Suitable for ages 16+, take part for as little as 10 minutes or up to an hour.)

Drop-in workshops are free of charge, with no prior booking needed. Visitors will need to pay for parkland entry to Tatton Park; details on pricing and opening times can be found online. tattonpark.org.uk