Long ago the whole of Southern England was covered in forest. Over time, this woodland has been gradually cut back, but small patches remain amidst the suburban sprawl of South-East London. A few ancient oaks still stand in gaps between housing estates, alongside railway lines and acting as boundary markers on roundabouts.
The history and magic that once filled the ancient forest can still be felt even when the trees are long gone. Memories of the Great North Wood are recorded in the place names – Forest Hill, Honor Oak, Norwood. This graphic novels tells the stories of the bandits, outlaws and gypsies that once roamed the forest. Their presence can sometimes be felt when the hum of the city is quiet.
Tim Bird’s psychogeographical work depicts how memories live on in the landscape of The Great North Wood.