The People’s Guidebook to Folkestone

Iain Sinclair once observed, "There are definite advantages to staying in the same spot for long periods of time. Partly you accrue information in a very slow, natural way, and partly you can see how the place breathes and changes. There's no way of being disturbed just by novelty."

As one of the 19 international artists selected for the Folkestone Triennial 2011, Strange Cargo embarked on a unique project titled Everywhere Means Something to Someone. We became cartographers of a different kind, mapping Folkestone both horizontally and vertically through the knowledge and memories of its residents.

Change is an unavoidable part of life, and it should be embraced. However, understanding the deep connections people have with their surroundings is crucial. The unique character of a place authenticates it, and this characteristic should be preserved even as regeneration takes place.

Even small remnants—such as evocative street names, out-of-context objects, or personal memories related to unseen events—often hold significance for individuals. These nuances, known primarily to locals, contribute to a richer understanding of a place. Recognizing and valuing these layers of meaning ensures that a place remains distinct and meaningful amidst change.

Everywhere Means Something to Someone explores Folkestone not merely as a location but as a place that engages with visitors on an emotional level. If the town is a gateway, this project invites visitors into a deeper dialogue with it.

Our goal was to offer a more nuanced perspective of Folkestone, providing a comprehensive view through words, images, and personal accounts from those who have lived in or frequently visited the town. This collection of stories and experiences reveals what holds significance, whether to many or a few.

We invited everyone to contribute, and through this inclusive approach, we crafted a portrait of Folkestone. This exploration uncovered layers of meaning that form a unique map of the town, where the landmarks are defined by the people who live there. It is more than a tourist guide—it is an intimate exploration of a hometown shared through personal stories and insights.

Everywhere Means Something to Someone is not just an A to Z map or conventional guidebook. It is a personal compilation of realities based on people's experiences and perceptions of specific places in Folkestone. This pocket-sized A6 book features a map with a key for locating described places and blank pages for individuals to add their own experiences. Over time, it will become a historical artifact—a testament to the project’s existence.

Commissioned by Andrea Schlieker, Curator of the 2011 Folkestone Triennial for the Creative Foundation, this guidebook captures the essence of Folkestone as seen through its residents' eyes. To purchase your copy, please visit our shop.