Do you have a fascinating story to tell? Then we want to hear it!

Our Storying Barnsley team are delighted to be working with Ian McMillan and Patrick Murphy on their latest project, A Walk Around Town.

Through a series of free workshops this September and October at locations across the Principal Towns, Ian and Patrick invite community members to join them and share stories, both real and imaginary, for a series of printed art maps.

A collaborative project by the duo, A Walk Around Town combines their skills in writing and visual art. Ian McMillan’s engaging writing about places and people is perfectly counter pointed by Patrick Murphy’s visual artwork, depicting objects and places of interest.

The project connects our six Principal Towns of Cudworth, Goldthorpe, Hoyland, Penistone, Royston, and Wombwell through workshops, new writing, and the production of a series of printed art maps that will encourage residents to ‘get creatively lost’ around the borough.

A Walk Around Town aims to foster a deeper connection to each town, highlighting their unique characteristics and stories. It will celebrate the beauty in everyday objects and uncover local humour and history. The project offers residents and visitors a fresh perspective on their surroundings, promoting local pride and community engagement.

Ian McMillan said: “I’m looking forward to working with Patrick and the people of Barnsley to create some new maps of the borough based on the tales we tell each other. Let’s celebrate the contours of our lives.”

Patrick Murphy said: “My art always connects to people and places, so it’s fantastic collaborating again with Ian on a series of creative journeys across the borough.

“Together, we’re blending visual art and writing to explore new perspectives and experiences in our local communities.”

Workshops will be held at the following locations and times :

• Penistone Library: 1.30pm to 3.30pm on Monday, 23 September.
• Hoyland Library: 10am to 12.30pm on Friday, 27 September.
• Wombwell Library: 2pm to 4.30pm on Friday, 27 September.
• Dearne Playhouse: 1.30pm to 3.30pm on Tuesday, 22 October.
• Cudworth Library: 10am to 12.30pm on Friday, 25 October.
• Royston Library: 1.30pm to 3.30pm on Friday, 25 October.

Please note these are static workshops and no walking will be involved or required.

Cllr Robin Franklin, the Council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “We are thrilled to invite everyone to join Ian McMillan and Patrick Murphy for these A Walk Around Town storytelling sessions.

“This is a unique opportunity to come together, share your stories, and play your part a creative project celebrating the rich heritage and vibrant community spirit we have in Barnsley.

“Come and help us uncover the untold stories of our borough and foster a deeper connection to the places we call home.

“Let’s explore the beauty and history of Barnsley together!"

This project is commissioned by Barnsley Council through the Cultural Development Fund programme 'Storying Barnsley', which aims to support local artists and celebrate the stories and heritage of the town.

For more information visit the Barnsley Museums website.