Visual art exhibitions and events with a platform for critical writing
Worcester City Museum and Art Gallery, Worcester
24 March – 5 May
Reviewed by: Sheila Farrell
‘Made in the Middle’ represents the work of contemporary craft makers, all of whom have some connection to the West Midlands. From recent graduates to makers with international reputations, thirty-seven practitioners were selected by a panel of curators, design historians and leading national makers to show their latest work in this national touring exhibition.
The exhibition explores ‘routes to an object’, investigating how inspirations and career paths create the passion, skills and ideas that lie behind each piece of work.
It is a fascinating concept to exhibit work which explores the creative process itself. Will it be inspiration or perspiration? You may find both in this wonderfully eclectic collection of more than 100 objects.
An activity booklet for children is provided, as well as an opportunity for direct interaction with objects that can be touched and handled. This is welcome if a little tentative and it would be good to find ways of engaging the audience with more chances to touch and even smell examples of the sensuous or humorous items on display. Having said that, there is some wonderful work in the exhibition, There is bound to be something to catch your eye, from ceramics, glass, jewellery, metalwork, textiles to furniture.
It is a marriage of art and craft that successfully establishes Midlands roots whilst revealing how we are all influenced by a much wider world. Some of the highlights for me are from makers who really push the creative boundaries, and like Deborah Roberts ask the question “what happens if I do this..?”. Roberts makes curious organic forms from felt using techniques almost as old as humanity, yet they still have something to say today. Look out for blown glass from Dena Bagi, the mixed media work of Rosamonde Ingram and many more.
‘Made in the Middle’ is touring to Artworks-mk, Milton Keynes; Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum; Shire Hall Gallery, Stafford; Bilston Craft Gallery, Wolverhampton; Brewery Arts, Cirencester; The Herbert Museum and Gallery, Coventry.
Writer detail:
Sheila Farrell
Venue detail:
Worcester City Museum & Art Gallery
Foregate Street, Worcester WR1 1DT
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