On my way to work

A lovely thing happened on my way to work today. I went to see the Stourbridge College Art end of year show. Saw some really super creations and constructions, the culmination of much thought and work for some really tallented young people. The purpose of todays visit was to see the work of the 2 students who will get the Jim Waite prize for excellence in engineering in their art/construction work. This comemorates the time when Jim ran the 3D design workshops.

He was renown for his tea drinking and 'jims cafe' where the movers and shakers met to cook beans and potatoes in the kiln and bacon etc on the forge with a welding torch for toast. He also facilitated a hub of excellence and creativity, bringing his engineering skills into the world of art. A creative man himself, never short of an idea to modify, enhance or invent even, he thrilled at the work of the students and would find ways to adapt the strictness of engineering processes in order to create the effects that the students were striving for....how many ways can you splatter with a welder sort of stuff.
He was in his element and he will be proud to know that his influence is still there. The 2 winners have produced truly excellent pieces of work......hopefully pics to follow.....

Getting Ready to Roll

Well the date has been set for the move of the Wildrose from her home at Bumble Hole to her R&R. Just 5 miles down the road, but a good place to work on her as she will be undercover and in a very safe place. Low Loader and crane are booked for 30th July so a lot of work to clear the spaces. 35ft long and 7 tons heavy is a bit of a load so its gonna be a bit interesting. Am learning how to use Jim's camera so I hope to be proficient by then ! !