SALT + EARTH: The Chalk Path/Le Chemin de Craie - Artist Led Walk PART 1

Journey through the Deep Time of the chalk cliffs at their closest point across the Channel.

The Chalk Path/Le Chemin de Craie is a bilingual self-guided audio walk through Folkestone Warren and Cap Blanc Nez that invites you to walk down through deep time, to reflect on the past and reimagine the future, considering the enormity of time and its relationship to our own human existence and impact. Collect a map and tune into the sound of the rocks and let them be your guide: Search for an ancestor on the beach, and consider what layer you wish to leave beyond your own lifetime. Why not visit both sides and experience the whole story? Perhaps your journey will be shared by a walker on the other side, looking across, seeking a connection that transcends human experience. Maps are available from Folkestone Urban Room, East Cliff NCI station, Maison de Site de Deux Caps, and Escalle Cabinalivre. You can make the journey at any time you like, it will take around an hour.

On Saturday 21st September we meet the Autumn Equinox with an artist-led journey on two sides of the same land, at two edges of the same day. Join us for this special occasion where Alison and Élodie will lead a ceremonial version of the walk for a small group to make the journey together at sunrise in England and sunset in France: Starting at Folkestone’s East Cliff at 6.30am, we witness the sunrise together before descending through the chalk cliffs to meet the sea. After a breakfast picnic in the Warren, you might wish to cross the channel to France to complete the journey with us in the evening, setting off from Cap Blanc Nez at 6.30pm and ending with a sunset ritual and gathering on the beach looking back the way we have come and forwards to the future.

We will also be sharing a filmic installation that offers an alternative perspective on the simultaneous walk experience on both coasts and re-unites the two chalk cliffs recently split by the Channel. Watch, touch, and listen.

Accessibility: The walks are approximately 1.5 miles over terrain that can be uneven and slippery, with several short but steep gradients and steps. Unfortunately the routes are not accessible for wheelchair users. If you cannot access the walking route in the UK you are welcome to borrow an audio device from Kollectiv, Folkestone and choose a spot facing the sea to enjoy the listening experience. Large format maps will also be available from Kollectiv, along with additional information about the route and the terrain.

Artist Name: Alison Neighbour with Gemma Riggs, Élodie Merland & Sébastien
Event Type: Walk
Date: Saturday 21st September 2024

Age Restrictions: 10+ (recommended)

Time:
Folkestone, UK: 06:30 hrs

Location:
Folkestone, UK: East Cliff NCI station