Borderways: Artist Residency, Rosie May
Artist: Rosie May (Wessex Hag)
Collaborators: Photographer Jon Barrett and artist Man in the Woods
Dates: 2026
Client: Wessex Garages
Location: Jupiter Park, Cribbs Causeway
An artist residency exploring contemporary folklore around Jupiter Park, Cribbs Causeway.
Borderways is an artist residency and publication exploring contemporary folk culture and the residential landscape surrounding Cribbs Causeway – an area shaped by centuries of transport, industry and ongoing development.
The residency brought together artist Rosie May (Wessex Hag), photographer Jon Barrett and artist Man in the Woods to explore the area through conversations with residents, local events and journeys across the landscape.
From BMX racing to youth clubs and ancient routes, the project explores how communities create their own traditions and cultural identities in a place experiencing constant change. Central to the residency was an interest in understanding the landscape through the eyes of local residents, particularly the experiences and sense of play of young people in Patchway.
The research has culminated in Borderways, a new artist book combining writing, photography and illustration.
Research and community engagement
Over the summer, the artists explored Patchway, Almondsbury and the surrounding area, following footpaths between housing estates, green spaces and industrial sites, and meeting the people who bring these places to life. Their research uncovered a rich variety of contemporary folk traditions, from BMX racing and motoring clubs to local festivals and youth activities.
The Tumps – Bristol Jets BMX Club
On the northern edge of Patchway, The Tumps BMX track occupies land formed from earth excavated during 19th century railway construction. Today, the site is home to Bristol Jets BMX Club, drawing riders of all ages from across the South West and South Wales.
The artists attended a regional race in July, followed by quieter practice sessions, taking photographs of the distinctive landscape of the track and the excitement of competition. The Tumps is a fascinating example of how land shaped by historic infrastructure has become a space for sport, play and community.
FACE – Young people and their local landscape
The artists documented a lively summer’s day of football, creative activities and community gatherings, meeting young people, youth workers and volunteers, at You Fest in Norman Scott Park, organised by FACE (Foundation for Active Community Engagement).
Walking the landscape
A series of research walks took place through Patchway, Catbrain and the surrounding landscape informed the illustrations created by artist Man in the Woods.
Exploring the network of footpaths, green spaces and industrial edges, the artists considered how the everyday features of the landscape might be interpreted by future generations. At Teletubby Hill, overlooking Cribbs Causeway, they explored how apparently ordinary structures might one day be understood as historical artefacts. These observations informed a series of intricate ink illustrations, finding unexpected patterns and beauty in familiar details, from chain-link fencing to the textures and boundaries of the built environment.
Borderways – A new artist book
The residency has culminated in Borderways, a publication by Rosie May (Wessex Hag), created in collaboration with photographer Jon Barrett and artist Man in the Woods.
Combining Rosie's writing, Jon's 35mm film photography and Man in the Woods' hand-drawn illustrations, the book brings together three distinct perspectives on the landscape and its communities. The publication explores the everyday activities, local histories and changing environments that shape contemporary folklore around Cribbs Causeway.
Borderways book launch, with Dance performances by Boss Morris
Sunday 1 November 2026, 4–6.30pm
North Patchway Hall, BS34 6ND
We welcome you to celebrate the publication launch of Borderways, a chance to discover the stories, photographs, illustrations and people behind the project. With dance performances by Boss Morris, the Gloucestershire-based group of female creatives, supported by professional musicians, who share an artistic and progressive vision of morris dancing.
Tickets are free via Headfirst.
Borderways is an artist residency and publication by Rosie May, produced by Ginkgo Projects for Wessex Garages at Jupiter Park. With thanks to the participating residents, community organisations and groups, including Bristol Jets BMX Club, FACE and Bristol Pegasus Motor Club.
About rosie May
Rosie May is a Somerset-based artist, musician, producer and storyteller whose practice explores local folklore, cultural traditions and the changing landscape of the West Country. Working across sound, writing and community projects, she is the creator of Weird Somerset and Wessex Hag, a podcast exploring the region's history and folklore.
Instagram: @wessex_hag
Podcast: Wessex Hag – Apple Podcasts
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