Stone Rivers

Stone Rivers

Stone Rivers brings together an artistic performance and a film by the artist Freya Marton, accompanied by seminars, residencies, and exhibitions. Marton presents a striking choreographic performance, showcasing finely crafted medieval paper costumes inspired by both Norman architecture and futuristic visions. The performances take place in castles and abbeys in Normandy and the United Kingdom. The program concept is created by Alice Sharp (Invisible Dust, UK) and implemented as part of an international collaboration bringing together partners in Normandy and the United Kingdom.

“The Middle Ages is one of humanity's great epochs of invention and represents the first industrial revolution in Europe.” (Jean Gimpel)

Stone Rivers explores the ingenuity of the Normans, focusing on the craftsmanship related to Caen stone architecture and the river networks that transport materials and shape European cultures and languages. Many iconic buildings in the United Kingdom — including the Tower of London, castles such as Chepstow, Corfe, Caernarfon, and Cardiff, as well as Westminster Abbey, Battle Abbey, and the cathedrals of Durham and Canterbury — were constructed by the Normans, with the help of French and local stonemasons, including sites located in the Scilly Isles and Ireland.

These enduring structures illustrate both the aesthetic power and contemporary environmental relevance of stone construction. The project examines the resources and know-how developed by the Normans, the spread of their techniques across territories, and how current climate challenges and approaches related to renewable energy are reviving interest in stone as a sustainable material. Stone lasts for thousands of years and has a significantly lower carbon footprint: about 10% of that of steel and 30% of that of concrete.

Stone Rivers also traces the networks of stone and waterways that allowed William the Conqueror to extend his influence. Stone is quarried near Caen, often sculpted on-site by skilled artisans, and then transported by boat across the Channel and along rivers to many territories in the UK, from Wales to Berwick. In 1066, William arrives with a strategic vision based on stone construction, understanding that castles and cathedrals reinforce power and governance. In Wales, strong resistance shapes a landscape marked by numerous fortifications, with castles built on both sides of the border by Welsh and Norman forces.

Stone remains at the heart of architectural heritage and future sustainability challenges. Its longevity, sculptural qualities, and low environmental impact make it an essential material for contemporary construction. Norman sculptures and architectures continue to shape European landscapes, while restoration and conservation remain crucial. Through Stone Rivers, seminars engage experts and the public, while younger generations are encouraged to develop heritage skills and pursue careers related to stone architecture.

The program demonstrates how these shared resources contribute to a transition towards a more sustainable European future, while strengthening ties between the United Kingdom and Europe. As part of the Year of the Normans, Stone Rivers brings together artists, historians, scientists, and young people to participate in a new European cultural momentum.

An artistic program between Normandy and the United Kingdom exploring the ingenuity and contemporary climate relevance of Caen stone and architecture.

Practical Information

Contact: admin@invisibledust.com

Partners in Normandy: House of Architecture, Utopik Factory, National School of Architecture of Normandy
Partners in the UK: English Heritage, National Trust, CCZ Berwick, Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales, Cadw (Welsh Government heritage service), Royal Institute of British Architects

Image: © Freya Marton, detail of costume, 2025, courtesy of Invisible Dust and the artist.