‘ Bumfitt’

My first visit to Oakwell Hall this year, and this huge sheep has come to the ‘ live’ in the arboretum.

Originally commissioned by Artichoke for Herd, a Kirklees Year of Musuc 2023 project.

Herd was a vibrant musical soundscape and Major participatory project in Kirklees.
‘ Bumfitt’ is one of a ‘ HERD’ of sheep who travelled Kirklees during the project in 2033 and now calls Oakwell home.

A total of 23 sheep were made for Herd by Dave Young, Jane Gaffikin and their team.
The sheep have been. Given names inspired by Yan Tan Tethera, a sheep - counting system traditionally used by shepherds in Northern England and some other parts.
Their use is also attested in a “ Knitting Song” Known to be sung around the middle of the 19th century, used to keep count of stitches.

Certainly something I knew nothing about before today.

Beautiful weather again. The country park was busy. Lots of families enjoying the good weather, which for once is at the weekend.
Lovely to hear the birds singing and flowers bursting forth. A real Spring day.
(See extra collage.)