LIFE BOXES

During the early part of 2007 I was asked to contribute to a project organised through Cumbria County Council and Sure Start. Fathers in Workington created a "Life Box" based on memories associated with their life and the lives of those around them

Some on the participants used their children as the focus of their work, while others dealt with their parents. Some used a misture of all their family. Many of the participants have very challenging lives and it is a testament to the work done by the staff of the Minto Centre at Workington that this project worked so well.

These boxes were exhibited at Tullie House, Carlisle along with boxes from Maryport, Barrow-in-Furness and Carlisle.

The colours indicate Burnley FC, who have been supported by Jason ever since he was a kid. His son now supports them, though his daughter is a Manchester united fan (which doesn't impress Dad much).

The other images relate to the first communion of the children.

Michael is keen on playing with his Thomas the Tank Engine set and has recently become interested in sport. The colours here are for Workington Town Rugby League Club and Liverpool FC.

The large metal object is a slice of the last "Big Lad" rolled off the mill at Workington in August 2006. It was cut by Michael's Dad as a souvenir for all the years worked making railway tracks.
Harry is involved with the Scouts, and the badges around the frame represent that. The drawing in the middle was made by his son, Thomas (who is difficult to photograph with blurring). It represents his school and lists his family.
Barry works with the fathers in this group and was keen to be involved. The captions explain his memories of his family - mostly his Dad.
Alan made this box and filled it with objects that related to his late father. The gearstick reminds hi of being allowed to change gear when his Dad was driving, something Alan allows his kids to do now.

"When Cody was born I knew he was a boy

The scan had told us about this joy

I was away for a minute when he appeared

And when I returned my heart just cheered

I held him - he was so light

I knew I'd love him with all my might.

Now a single Dad, sometimes it's tough

But mostly there's more smooth than rough.

15 months later we enjoy the park

Or swing at home and we have a lark

But best of all is tickling him as he laughs out loud

And I join in laughing, hysterical and proud."
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