|
The works in Through
the Surface are a stunning spectacle. Created on an architectural
scale, they aim to push the boundaries of our understanding of textiles.
There will be works using common fabrics such as
polyester, paper, wool and cotton. These are then (sometimes literally)
interwoven with materials such as fishing line, electroplated zinc,
reclaimed bath insulation foam, gold and silver leaf, aluminium,
bamboo, tarpaulin and seaweed.
The exhibition also tells a story of cultural exchange
and collaboration between Britain and Japan.
Glacier by Junichi Arai (detail). Photographer:
Toshiharu Kawabe Materials: Wool, Polyester, aluminium |
During 2003, seven young textile artists travelled
to work with seven established artists in the opposite country.
The latter have all won major international prizes,
whilst the younger artists represent outstanding talent from the
new generation.
Lesley Millar, Project Director with Through The
Surface said: "I have worked for years to introduce the British
public to supreme works by Japanese masters and also to reveal the
excellence of our leading makers to audiences in Japan.
"It's very exciting to be showing the exhibition
at the Sainsbury Centre in Norwich. It will be the first time the
works have all been shown together and so the impact will be tremendous,"
she added.
The artists partnerships ran for three months,
after which all involved made new work as a result of the experience.
Twenty commissioned pieces have been created for
this outstanding exhibition. Some are collaborative, as a result
of the artists' time together, others show exciting, individual
responses.
Through the Surface is the successor to the exhibition
Textural Space which was displayed at the Sainsbury Centre for Visual
Arts in Summer 2001.
Transition by Anniken Amundsen (detail).
Photographers: Chapman/Forsyth
Materials: Fishing wire |
"The wonderful spaces of the Sainsbury Centre
will be the perfect backdrop for this art," enthused Millar.
"Many of the works have quite an architectural
influence which will be particularly highlighted in the Foster-designed
galleries.
"Also, when a 15ft tall piece of textile art
is being displayed, it's great to be able to give it lots of space
- a real 'wow' for visitors!," she added.
Through
The Space is viewed in two areas of the Sainsbury Centre, both the
lower gallery and the special exhibition area.
The works in the lower gallery will be exhibited
until Sunday 16 May, with the rest of Through the Surface available
until Sunday 13 June.
Participating artists are: Junichi
Arai and Tim Parry Williams; Machiko Agano and Anniken Amundsen;
Michiko Kawarayabashi and Ealish Wilson; Teruyoshi Yoshida and Claire
Barber; Maxine Bristow and Kyoko Nitta; Frances Geesin and Kaori
Hosozawa and; Jeanette Appleton and Naoko Yoshimoto.
听
|
View 
