Q & A - The Great Dome Art Fair

One of the last shows of this year's Fringe is also one the biggest and most ambitious. It is likley to draw big crowds too (especially since it's Free). Peak District Products (PDP) is mounting a show of original art, craftwork and locally produced food by 50 professionals from the area. There is also the draw that it takes place in The Dome (the old Devonshire Hospital) which is now the University of Derby. The show is on the 26-27 July from 10.00am-4.30pm. Obviously neither The Dome nor PDP could answer these questions. Ingrid Karlsson-Kemp - a member of PDP and who has some work in the Derbyshire Open 2008 exhibition in the Museum - kindly answered our questions for this, the last, Q & A for 2008.

You haven’t played Buxton before why have you decided to come for 2008?

We think Buxton is a buzzing place in the summer and the festival season

Amongst Buxton’s famous sons and (adopted daughter) are Tim Brooke-Taylor, Dave Lee Travis and Vera Brittain. How do you feel about following in the footsteps of such giants?

We have some classy artists and makers in our midst and feel confident about filling those footprints with due respect!

What reaction do you expect from your audiences?

We expect delight and enjoyment and excitement.

5 pieces of fruit and veg a day – what do you choose to eat?
I love vegetables but make an effort with fruit!

Do you have any superstitions or routines that you follow before starting a performance?

For a Preview I like to wear favourite outfit and favourite brooch…

Buxton Mineral Water – how do you drink it?

With pleasure chilled as it is

Are there any other performers/artists that you especially admire? If so, who and why?

Hanna Ryggen, Norwegian textile artist, worked large in narrative

without fear or worries about reactions (see her work on Nazi oppression at the time of occupation of Norway)

Nicola Hicks, British Sculptor, creates powerful emotional pieces like a herd of cows, which could only be finished in situ in the gallery (i.e. don’t be limited…)

Robert Rauschenberg, American artist, between painter and sculptor with his combines, paved the way for Pop art, Happenings, performance art and installations.

What question would you have liked to answer here?

Where do you find peace to work?

What is your answer?

Earl Sterndale where I have lived for five years now (this gave me an excuse to mention this lovely village)

by Keith Savage - Published 22/07/2008