Museum of Hartlepool
Waves of Change
Client: Hartlepool Borough Council
Scope: Interactives and seating
In March 2023, we took on a thrilling challenge with a tight deadline – just in time for the Tall Ships' arrival in Hartlepool. Our mission? To transform a gallery into a vibrant, captivating space. The client's vision was clear: infuse it with playfulness, engagement, excitement, and fun. The outdoor seating was also an integral part of the redesign of the quayside to make it more accessible and playful. It is now open for all visitors to enjoy and not only school visits.
Collaborating with Lima Studios, we dove headfirst into workshops with the Client Team. Our goal was to weave the essence of 'Two Hartlepool's' and 'Waves of Change' into the exhibit, prompting visitors to actively shape the future of the Museum of Hartlepool through a dedicated feedback wall. The gallery served as a canvas for the tales of local luminaries like Ralph Ward Jackson, whose creative genius birthed the Harbour and Dockside. Then there's Sir Ridley Scott, an alumni of West Hartlepool College of Art, who spun his filmmaking journey from the town, beginning with 'The Boy on the Bike' cruising the local terrain. Ridley later drew from Hartlepool's industrial tapestry to inspire his iconic 'Blade Runner.'
But it wasn't just about prominent figures. We delved into Hartlepool's soul, unearthing stories of everyday heroes – dockworkers, and even 'Fish Annie,' the spirited fishmonger who wheeled her fish-filled pram across the headland. A centerpiece emerged: a circular walk on the Map of Hartlepool and its surroundings. With interactive surprises and accessible artifacts, it invites exploration.
Working with sustainability in mind, we revitalised existing Iroko ship timbers, transforming them into cosy seating and accessible picnic tables. Local quotes and patterns adorn the space, echoing the gallery's theme. From deadlines to budgets, our journey was a masterclass in creative problem-solving. The result? A gallery that tells Hartlepool's tales, ignites curiosity, and fosters a connection between history and the present.