The shape of things - A national programme of craft exhibitions

Release Date:  12-Jan-2010

6 February - 18 April 2010
Bristol’s City Museum & Art Gallery
Free exhibition, Open daily 10am-5pm

The shape of things (TSOT) features two unique and beautifully crafted installations by textile artist Alinah Azadeh and ceramic artist Rosa Nguyen. Both artists have used traditional techniques to create extraordinary pieces that will challenge perceptions of what craft is.

Alinah and Rosa are amongst eight artists who have been awarded bursaries by the shape of things -a national contemporary crafts project - to create new work, which explores identity within British society and connections with global cultures at venues across the UK.

About the works:

Rosa Nguyen - Still Living
Rosa Nguyen’s ceramic and glass installation draws inspiration from the museum’s Chinese glass, British ceramic and Natural History collections, to create beautiful visual representations of nature and landscape. Rosa’s work uses traditional art forms such as Ikebana, the Japanese form of flower arranging and gardening, and makes reference to the spiritual energy of Chi. Her installations will incorporate pieces from the museum’s collections, providing a fresh perspective.

Alinah Azadeh- The Gifts
Alinah Azadeh asked the public to give objects they once valued or used, but were ready to let go of. These objects - pieces of personal legacy - have now been transformed using weaving, binding and wrapping to create a series of stunning textile, sculptural installations.
The works will include stories from the givers that reveal the experiences, memories or associations with the objects that have been laid to rest through their contribution to the project. Alinah will also be holding a series of ‘Giver days’, inviting those that gave objects to come to the museum to meet the artist and see the finished installation.

Director of the shape of things partnership, David Kay says:

“TSOT aims to provide opportunities for artists working with craft media to develop their talents and work closely with curators to produce new work for exhibition and installation in public spaces. TSOT seeks to stimulate debate about the contribution contemporary craft makes to a society that is culturally diverse. By enabling artists to have an independent voice through their work on issues such as identity, which can inform and engage local communities, TSOT encourages a practice, audience and market for contemporary crafts representative of the society we live in today.”

The exhibition will be accompanied by a series of talks, tours and family activities. For further information about the exhibition visit www.bristol.gov.uk/museums
 

Author:  Helen Hewitt, Media Officer, 0117 92 22646

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