Loop the Loop

We are delighted to share  ‘Loop the Loop’ a community-based project and play installation for Balsall Heath Library and Moseley Road Baths. In which we were invited to co-design and make this project with Intervention Architecture, as part of the ‘Imaginarium’ creative pilot to explore how the library can support storytelling and narrative for a broad range of audiences.

Intervention Architecture worked with children and young people from Calthorpe Academy, Balsall Heath CATS and Uffculme School who helped to design a multisensory sculpture for the library via a series of sensory workshops introduced a variety of material samples which explored tactile qualities through form and texture.

With a playful approach and led by the young people, who formed responses to objects, textures, movement and colour. We created a performing space and a range of mobile furniture and objects. This showcases the sensory materials that were discovered during the workshops and visual qualities which are complementary to architectural features such as the arched details found within the library.

All aspects of this project are focused on exploring, playing and storytelling. There are viewfinders to alter your perception, chalkboards and magnetic shapes to draw and leave messages, action games, and wheelie carts for a fun adventure around the library or as a place to rest and read.  These are housed under a playful arched structure which can be transformed in a variety of ways, allowing for changeability of looped items to explore through and around the form.

Loop the loop creates an exciting focal point for library visitors and was brought to life and activated by the performers from the Open Theatre. They specialise in non-verbal, physical and inclusive theatre for young people with learning disabilities. Their programme of performances throughout the summer period featured  “Who’s better than who ?” where a bird-like storyteller guided the audience through a medley of stories from their story box.

We knew this would be a joyfully rewarding collaboration and community-based project and we are pleased to share this with you.

Project led | Intervention Architecture

Local Schools | Uffculme School, Balsall Heath CATS, Calthorpe Academy

Storytelling | Open Theatre

Shire Structure UK |  Shire Structures Uk

Photography | Paul Millar Architectural Photography

Film| Dion Barrett at Studio 50two

Play installation for Balsall Heath Library space and Mosely Road Baths. Commissioned by Moseley Road Baths as part of the Diving In programme funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund