The Petrus: Slope Stories exhibition has opened on the Broadfield Park Slopes in Rochdale, offering visitors a unique outdoor exploration of the site's history through creative works produced by Petrus service users and volunteers. The free exhibition, located behind Rochdale Town Hall, runs from Monday, August 10, and is open to the public in this accessible public space.
Exhibition Highlights and Creative Workshops
The exhibition captures the rich history of the Slopes and personal narratives from participants, including childhood memories of counting Church Steps and first meetings, alongside experiences of homelessness. These stories have been transformed into artwork through a series of creative workshops, with archive images and materials from Rochdale Local Studies serving as inspiration.
Petrus, a Rochdale-based charity supporting people affected by homelessness, has collaborated with service users and volunteers to produce the pieces on display. The workshops and exhibition are part of the broader Broadfield Park Slopes Restoration Project, which has received funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Community Engagement and Heritage
The outdoor setting allows passersby to engage with the artwork at their own pace, making heritage accessible to all. The project aims to celebrate the Slopes' significance while fostering a sense of community connection through shared stories.
For those interested in local heritage and creative expression, the exhibition offers a chance to see how personal experiences intersect with historical narratives. The use of archive materials ensures that the site's past is honored while contemporary voices are amplified.
Event Details and Access
The exhibition is situated on the Broadfield Park Slopes, behind Rochdale Town Hall, at The Esplanade, Rochdale, OL16 1AZ. It is free to view and does not require booking, encouraging spontaneous visits from locals and tourists alike.
For further information about the exhibition or the restoration project, visitors can contact Rochdale Borough Council's cultural services or visit the Petrus website for updates on related events.
