Doncaster film maker asks what it means to be working class and northern

Combining archive audio interviews and new collected conversations, Wayne will create the basis for a new digital artwork.

“As a working class artist it’s important to me to explore and embrace my heritage,” said Wayne.

“Through digital I am able to find a vehicle to explore the complexities of what it means to be working class both now and in the past.”

Wayne, an associate artist at Cast in Doncaster and the co licensee for TEDx Doncaster, TEDx Doncaster Youth and TEDx Doncaster Women, will be working alongside composer Hayley Youell on the online installation, which is being funded by Arts Council England.

And the intention is that, with further Arts Council England support, the virtual installation will become a live event as COVD-19 lockdown restrictions begin to ease.

That further stage will include Projection Mapping, the digital technique that can turn anything from cars to buildings and natural landmarks into display spaces with the use of projected images, films and digital content.

“We have invited a range of people in the north to take part, people who consider themselves to be working class northerners,” said Wayne.

“As somebody who grew up in Doncaster and still lives in the town, that’s absolutely how I identify myself and I am proud of that.

“But what I am trying to find out is that is so important and what are the factors that other people believe contribute to their sense of being northern.

“We want to get behind the cliches of Yorkshire and the working class north and explore the region through a collection of personal experiences.

“The voices of our interviewees, along with Hayley’s contribution, will create a soundscape that will be presented online as a live stream.

“So much of my work in the past year has had to focus on that approach, but the great thing is that this project has the potential to become something much bigger as we start to enjoy greater freedom of movement again.”

The Wayne Sables Project was founded in 2006.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.

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