Heads of the River

Join Thames riverboat dweller Martin Cottis in a two day series of chalk carving workshops using small lumps of chalk that are to be found along the shores of the Thames.

Typically found in the remains of old barge beds are lumps of chalk brought in as ballast by the many ships arriving in the docks and deposited along the wharves and jetties. This waste material was used to create soft resting places for Thames barges at low points of the tide. Modern river traffic is now fast eroding these beds.

The chalk is very easily worked with just a small file and sandpaper.

Working as individuals and families, we will produce a collection of portrait heads which will later be displayed in a cabinet of curiosities at the end of each session.

Commissioned by the Royal Docks Team, At the Docks’ Summer Commissions are 11 projects by creative organisations, local artists and young people, that respond to the theme of sustainability.