A school visit to Bidston Observatory Artistic Research Centre offers pupils an exciting opportunity to explore an autonomous arts space and historical landmark, as well as an enriching curriculum-linked experience. With an emphasis on experimentation, we aim to connect local young people with the culture, heritage and activity surrounding the site. Please see our key stage 1 and 2 education pack for further details on activities, learning outcomes, accessibility and other practical information.
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2 day research residency
A-level art/design students have the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of a research residency. Many professional artists undertake residencies as part of their practice. Students will develop a mini research project and get feedback as part of the residency. Two-day residencies can include overnight stays, however students must be supervised guardians & teachers.
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Workshop, half a day
Students visit the dome in Bidston Observatory, hear about the history of the observatory, and how the telescope was used to measure time. This visit includes access to the building and use of a room for half a day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an artistic research centre?
In the arts, just like in the sciences, research is conducted in the process of making or experimenting. Practitioners take time, and focus attention on the way that they conduct their practice – however it fits into a discipline, or sits outside many. The process of doing research in the arts varies greatly, and there is no one methodology which applies to all. This artistic research centre is a space where people can come to explore different methods of working, have time for reflection, and get feedback from other practitioners.
What do you mean by self-organising?
The stewards are here to support the building and its resources. The building and its resources are here to support you and your work. While the project is all about trying to make things possible, stewards are already fully occupied with administration and practicalities and can not be expected to support the needs of your personal practice too.
Why is it only possible to stay for a minimum of two nights?
It’s not possible for people to stay for one night only, as this tends to take away from the community’s resources rather than add to it - not to mention the extra laundry costs!
Why is it only possible to stay for a maximum of one month?
In order for this resource to be shared by multiple different groups and individuals, stay is capped at one month. This keeps the space flowing and stops areas becoming territorialised unintentionally. As this is a study site, it is not possible to just live here, though we understand study takes many different forms and doesn’t always appear “productive”.
Why is there a sliding scale?
Many of the decisions we make here at BOARC focus on keeping this resource available for practitioners. The sliding scale helps us to offer a subsidised rate to people who would benefit.
Why is it important to read the values?
through the values carefully and make a decision for themselves about whether they feel aligned. It is not important to share all of these values exactly as they are written, but you should be aware that this is an actively anti-racist, anti-ableist, intersectional feminist site, and there are accountability guidelines in place here for users, stayers, stewards and organisers alike.[Link to values here]
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