‘Red’ – Teresa and Dominique Hodgson-Holt, ‘In Certain Places’

Got drenched on the way from the car to our cosy stall (Chorley today) in torrential rain. A big, red umbrella caught our eye immediately, the red being a pattern of bright red strawberries. We swiftly purchased 2 which came to £9, bargain. Jo of Jo’s diner nipped out to the shop to get some porridge for us which has become ritual. I take mine with sugar and Teresa (mum) takes hers with honey (always the healthier one). After breakfast we began our usual performance of trying to make eye contact with passers-by, especially those who are wearing red. As always we’ve had lots of interest and people are thrilled to hear about our project and those who are unable to participate wish us the best of luck with our venture. It really does give us a buzz when their reactions are overflowing with enthusiasm, and although the ‘red day out’ will be the exhibited work, it is very obvious that our art isn’t only about a final performance but an ongoing performance which reaches people on every level and in every walk of life. One chap happened by us and began laughing, ‘lost your horse?’, he asked. We haven’t heard that one before and he didn’t hang around long enough for us to ask what he meant. We’ve had 3 more recruits today though. One is a young man named Ross whose mission is to break into the fashion world in an unconventional approach. He is going to create his own outfit and add a bit of glamour to the day. As time creeps towards the finale we now have almost 40 people so only another 10 to go. Bury on Friday as we’re meeting Rebecca to sort out her outfit. We have a lovely dress lined up for her so fingers crossed it fits and she likes it.