Monday 27 September 2010

"A Silent Conversation"

Have you considered what makes a gallery? does it have to have a specific layout with spotlights and a hanging system? does it have to be dedicated and defined as a gallery? This was the thought that occurred to our reviewer when he came came to write this preview.
On Thursday night (25/09/2010) we attend a preview of "A Silent Conversation" being the latest combined art exhibition by Mick Foster, John Ledger and Mikk Murray in the West Yorkshire Village of 'Honley' just outside of Hudderfield.
The exhibition is self was located in 'Holme Valley Warehouse' situated on the main road running through the village, the name of the premises initially gave the mental impression of it being an industrial warehouse which proved to be erroneous, for these are commercial shop style premises which upon entering proved to be a treasure trove of art, sculpture and object d 'art fighting with, yet complementing each other for space on the lower floor but at the same time having some of the upper rooms totally dedicated to art work including the current exhibition.
The owner of the premises (another 'Mick') deals mainly in old style furniture comprising Wardrobes, Chest's of Drawers, Pews, etc, either in their original state or which have been refurbished as well as unusual and quirky pieces for the garden and home which have been placed in some cases where there is room, giving the premises an almost emporium feel.
You may ask what does this have to do with a contemporary art exhibition, the fact is that this mix of solid wood furniture belonging to another generation , quirky objects and this specific exhibition of modern art incredibly fits together, which caused us to ask "What make a gallery"?.
As usual the answer lies with you the viewer so rather than us posting a personal review of the exhibition itself, feel free to go along and visit the premises and exhibition, then tell us what you think.
Add your comments or opinions on the blog.
The Premises are situated at 11 West Gate, Honley, Huddersfield HD9 6AA
t.n 01484 667915 and is open Monday- Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday 10.00am-5pm, closed Wednesday & Sunday.
The Exhibition runs until the 8th October 2010.

Monday 6 September 2010

"20x20" at Access

Entering its 5th year the Access Space's 5th exhibition has 48 pieces of art work on exhibition by various artists based on a mount of 20x20 in size hence the title.
The subject matter and style are left to the individual which had produced an eclectic mash of 20x20,s from paper mache' to prints and textiles, however surely this is what it is all about, the unknown and unexpected ranging from the figurative to the obscure or even tenuous.
Being a IT centre the exhibition has to be viewed in part with IT work taking place but this is not a detriment for as can be seen from some of the work the connection beween digital photography and IT work can sometimes be blurred and taken out of contex, but who is to say that it cannot or should not happen, we are talking artistic interpretation which relies on presenting that work to the viewer for judgement and criteque, that space none of it would happen.
The Access Space is open 11am-7pm and is situated at 3-7 Sidney Street, Sheffield

"The Working Artist"

"The Working Artist" is a joint exhibition by 7 young artists working in collaboration with each other to mount an exhibition of their work aided by collaboration with Barnsley Council in providing an empty shop situated within the town centre for the promotion of the arts by such individuals or groups such as this exhibition on display in the aptly named POD1.
The range covers photography, installation and fine art dealing with various subject pertinent to the artists own interest.
Artist exhibiting are Carys Bryan (Photography and drawing) Kate Burton (Photography)
Fiona Helen Halliday (Fine Art) Jessica Jones (Fine Art) John Ledger (Drawing) Sophie Littlewood (Sculpture) Lisa V Robinson (Fine Art)
For further information contact the Northern Young Artists at fiona'norhternyoungartists.co.uk