Andrej Polukord has completed an artistic residency in Folkestone, supported by Creative Europe’s Magic Carpets platform.
For centuries, hay structures have served as natural shelters for travellers. When hay becomes moistened, fermentation begins at the centre, producing heat as the temperature rises to around 45°C. This phenomenon was well-known to ancient travellers, who would use the warmth of hay shelters to survive cold nights while journeying between cities – a trip that could last days or even weeks.
Travellers often sought refuge in these hay shelters during storms. If two travellers happened upon the same shelter, they could become friends in adversity or, at times, enemies. The hay shelter provided not just warmth but protection from rain and cold, offering a bivouac for those in need.
It is said that during the summer of 1917, Vladimir Lenin, leader of the world proletariat, hid in one such makeshift shelter near Lake Razliv, close to Saint Petersburg. These simple shelters weren’t just for protection against the elements – they also served as effective camouflage for political revolutionaries on the run.
During Polukord’s artistic residency in Folkestone, he has recreated a hay shelter through a series of workshops with local school children. Located on Crete Road East, a path frequently travelled by hikers in Folkestone, this hay shelter follows the same principles. It provides temporary refuge for those caught by storms, allowing them to rest for a night or longer, depending on the weather. Following the traditions of bivouac culture, travellers are encouraged to leave the shelter as they found it – or even better equipped for the next person in need.
Though functional, this shelter is fragile, constructed from local animal feed – branches and hay. The animals grazing in the surrounding fields don’t recognise the structure as a shelter. To them, it’s simply a food source, and driven by instinct, they might unknowingly dismantle the shelter while feeding.
Note: At the top of Dover Hill, just before the Valiant Sailor pub, turn left onto Crete Road East (North Downs Way). After a small set of houses on the right-hand side, there is a gate/entrance to farmland. The hay structure is located on the left-hand side.
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Curatorial text by Jacob Bray