THE ROADLORE ARCHIVE

The Roadlore Archive is an interactive installation containing artefacts and documents relating to Roadside Magic, first shown at part of the exhibition LORE at Sunny Bank Mills (2024). 

Within the vitrine you will find a series of vehicular charms and objects of practical ritual. Many of these smaller objects would be used daily, by individuals for protective or remedial uses. Other Items would have been part of grand celebrations, playing integral roles in the seasonal rituals of the road. 

On the rail are a number of replica Roadlore folk costumes including Cone Dancers, Guise Blessers, Roadside Rescue and Gasket Dancers. Please feel free to try them on, for anyone expecting an M.O.T., this is highly recommended.  The Garage pictured on the backdrop is situated in Twerton, and has a long standing history of Roadside Magic. 

The screens show two films, one of archival imagery, the other, a wide selection of documented artefacts. These have both been created by the curatorial team at  The Museum of Roadside Magic, with an aim to share the richness of this little known culture to an audience far and wide.

Photos: Harry Meadley, Sunny Bank Mills Gallery.