Anna Gillespie: 'Dwelling' Exhibition At Gallery Steel Rooms:

If you get the chance to visit 'Dwelling' by Anna Gillespie at Gallery Steel Rooms, I really can't recommend it enough.

When I opened the door, the atmosphere in the gallery space was incredible.

The figures loomed towards me, and I felt such a mixture of emotions as initially the figures felt imposing, but quickly seemed imploring, isolated, even though they are presented in a group..

This sense of disparity is palpable, and I was not surprised that this installation entitled 'What It Takes' explores the issue of displacement, and the political plight faced by refugees.

Gillespie's second installation 'Dwelling' explores the opposing theme of home and belonging, and reflects on her childhood home in the 1970's.

The very personal themes of vulnerability and of being trapped in a claustrophobic environment juxtapose dramatically next to 'What It Takes'.

I love the profiles and textures on these pieces.

I also became fascinated by their feet!

I couldn't resist sitting down and having a sketch...

What also struck me about Gallery Steel Rooms is how they support female artists.

I hate labelling artists by their gender, but sadly the representation of women artists is still an important issue that should be tackled in the art world.

Gallery Steel Rooms should be congratulated for their excellent work and exciting programme of exhibitions and events.

Dwelling.

Anna Gillespie.

Gallery Steel Rooms.

30/6/18 - 1/9/18

Mister Finch And The Wish Post...

Last Sunday was a very giddy day indeed, as I visited 'The Wish Post', Mister Finch's exhibition at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

As soon as I entered the exhibition I felt as though the mysterious Mister Finch had allowed us all a little peek into his world of magic and make-believe...

And what a magical world it is...

Every detail is meticulously crafted and his use of recycled materials is simply ingenious.

As I was sitting in the exhibition, I could hear people talking about the creatures' characters and pointing out the tiny accessories.

I became quite obsessed with their feet, no-one stitches toes like Mister Finch!

You can actually feel the love that has been poured into each individual creature, their postures, clothing and expressions are completely unique, and I am convinced that when the lights are switched off in the gallery those little characters come to life...

And just look at those beautiful squirrels, who nimbly string up the whispered wishes into the trees, 

(I don't want to tell you anymore of the story as you just have to read Mister Finch's self-published book.)

Not only is it a beautiful piece of art in itself, it actually made me shed a happy tear or two!

I loved 'The Ring A Dings' so much that I settled down in a little corner of the room.

The hedgehog I sketched is called 'Bobble'...

... I did get the feeling as though I was being watched though!

O! How I fell in love with The Festival Mice!

One thing that Mister Finch mentioned in his book is something I completely relate to as well:

'Working small doesn't always mean less work - in fact it often means quite the opposite!'

Just look at the swans' feathers!

And here's Poe the mouse, the star of the show.

I also managed to sketch the very dashing Mr. Birdwhistle.

(I'm sure he gave me a little wink when I'd finished!)

I was really pleased with this photograph because the reflections in the glass make it look as though they are walking through the forest!

I treated myself to Mister Finch's book (and maybe one or two other little bits and bobs!)

The YSP has a very dangerous shop of delights indeed!

(And just before I left I might have just whispered a wish, well...you never know!)

Mister Finch.

The Wish Post.

YSP Centre.

23/6/18 - 23/9/18