Overview

I loved this exhibition of the products made from fallen ash trees; it was particularly pertinent to me as we've lost both ash and elm from the wood overlooking my garden. I really loved the artworks and furniture in the exhibition, especially the amphorae and the Orkney chair. The wood was gathered from Perthshire and was diseased ash which was going to fall on public spaces such as railway lines, schools etc. if not felled. There was an accompanying film which followed the process of a chair being made using hand turned techniques against a narrative of the story of the ash trees being felled; it also highlighted the endangered species which depend on the trees. The furniture-maker stated that he felt that we should respect the trees by ensuring that in its new existence it is at least as beautiful as the tree it was. It was a moving and poignant film which ended on a hopeful note, informing the viewer about the efforts made by ecologists to improve the situation, showing that the fate of the ash isn't set in stone, that we too can determine the future of our landscape.

Transport & Parking

The venue is in the middle of town; there is a short but steep hill leading up to it with handrails. There are two disabled parking spaces outside the museum and car parks in the centre with disabled parking: Castle Street is the closest, Eastgate Centre Underground Car Park (changing Places there too), Cathedral Car Park, Rose St Multi-storey Car Park. The train and bus station are about 5-1o minutes wheel away.

Access

There are automatic doors at the entrance of the museum and a lift to help you access both floors; it's the kind of lift with the automatic door and then you have to keep your finger pressed on the button but the staff are there to help as soon as you approach the lift and are very helpful, also meeting you to help you disembark. There's lots of room to get around and the exhibits are at at good height for people in wheelchairs. There was a film to accompany the exhibition but the volume was too low for two people in our party who had slight hearing impairment; the staff came quickly to adjust the volume and induction loops were also available at reception.

Toilets

There was a red cord in the correct position and the toilets were very clean with grab rails and room to manoeuvre.

Staff

The staff were very helpful, friendly and made me feel welcome.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

There is a lovely cafe and gift shop on the first floor which I've been to on a previous visit. I have a suggestion: I loved this exhibition but I only knew about it as I'm on the mailing list and it struck me that most of the other people there were tourists. I think events could be advertised more widely then more local people would attend and also go to the cafe and gift shop. I'll definitely be back.

Photos