“Remember those clear boundaries between art forms? Yeah, these Cunning Folk got rid of them.” The Skinny’s Top 10 Events, Northwest
“…a day full of music and art. One Five Eight host a free exhibition of work at Kraak Gallery (across the pavement) from 2pm, before the Cunning Folk Festival itself kicks off from 3pm. At this time a three-pronged attack begins: artist Jay Smith co-ordinates art in the Alleyway; sound art, film and poetry collective Paradox take over the Kraak Loft (on the second floor); and the [cunning] folk itself begins in the venue’s main space.” – Manchester Wire
“Creative types take over Kraak Gallery for a day of off-the-wall culture.” The Guardian
On several occasions in my career, I have involved myself with ‘grand musical acts’: that is, the bringing together of different artists and musicians to affect a particular alchemy. With varied results have I laboured, and now, once again, I bring to you something which I hope, shall titillate your senses in a fashion that you might consider unusual. I call it The Manchester Cunning Folk Festival. The location will be that almost antediluvian seeming alleyway outside of the Kraak Gallery: a place that has become soaked with memories and emotions of nearly every kind.
We will witness installations crafted by the One Five Eight collective, poetry and noise from the minds behind PARADOX and music from a host of Manchester’s finest audio magicians. The alleyway, it is my hope, will take on the quality of a bazaar, as Manchester’s artists come together and attempt to create something of beauty.
And why the name: Cunning Folk Festival? These are strange times, at least to this observer. Look to your artists, for they will fulfil your needs when times seem barren. Be wily, like a fox. Is there an Adversary? Perhaps, perhaps not. These people…these ‘cunning folk’ shall come together and show you a glimpse of what is to come. Gird yourself.
Leonard Skully PhD