An exhibition showcasing 20th-century graphic design in the Czech Republic highlights the nation’s evolving identity amid political turmoil. This display illustrates the transition from the constraints of Communist rule to a period of creative freedom following its collapse. The exhibition features typefaces and design changes over the decades, laid out in a non-linear fashion that allows visitors to engage with the material at their own pace.

In addition to the visual elements, the exhibition offers insightful text descriptions exploring the emergence of these designs. Questions addressed include the evolution of graphic design education in post-Communist society and how promotional strategies adapted to the new market conditions. Visitors can observe the challenges faced when balancing traditional designs with modern innovations.

For transport enthusiasts, the exhibition includes information about wayfinding and Metro signage in Prague. A notable piece is a communist children’s book about London, intriguing for its perspective on democratic values. Design and typography aficionados will appreciate the overall offering, which also reflects society’s response to political change.

Nearby, another gallery features Czechoslovakian film posters promoting Hollywood films, showcasing unique cultural interpretations. One surprising poster relates to “Jaws,” which incorporates an abstract shark representation. These posters are available for purchase from Terry Posters.

The exhibition, titled “Identity – The Story of Czech Graphic Design,” is on display at the Czech Centre in Notting Hill until June 2025, open Tuesday to Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, and entry is free. Additional interest awaits as the display outside the Czech Embassy currently features silhouette graphics from David Zane Mairowitz’s adaptation of Franz Kafka’s “The Castle,” with a nearby green plaque marking a historic location used by the Czech government in exile during WWII.

The ‘Identity – The Story of Czech Graphic Design’ exhibition presents a rich exploration of the Czech Republic’s graphic design history from communism to capitalism. Through its engaging displays and informative texts, it invites visitors to consider the impact of political changes on artistic expression. The accompanying gallery of film posters and nearby historical markers further enrich the cultural experience, making it a must-visit for design enthusiasts and those interested in Czech history.

Original Source: www.ianvisits.co.uk

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Two new exhibitions in the UK are spotlighting the often chaotic interplay of motherhood and art. One of these, “Sorry About the Mess,” showcases over 20 artist-mothers at Meta’s former offices in London, a venue chosen for its stark contrast of office decor with the theme of motherhood and creativity. Organised by Millie Walton, who founded Babe Station to discuss art and motherhood post-children, the exhibition emerged from workshops she conducted for new mothers.

Co-curators include Niamh Gordon, overseeing written works, and Nefeli Sidiropoulou, managing the installation design. Featured artists include Holly Stevenson, Sophie Goodchild, and Tamarin Norwood, the latter presenting a poignant audio work reflecting on her own heartbreaking experience of motherhood.

The dialogue around motherhood in art is evolving, especially since the pandemic, though some artists resist engagement due to feeling pigeonholed. Writer Hettie Judah has initiated “Acts of Creation: On Art and Motherhood,” to address historic biases against artist-mothers, remarking on society’s earlier expectations that separated artistic identity from motherhood.

Judah notes that while representation of mother-artists is improving, practical barriers like childcare costs continue to hinder their work. Many mothers face challenges maintaining art studios due to financial constraints, which can limit their creative output.

Both exhibitions aim to raise awareness of the complexities faced by artist-mothers and celebrate the artistic contributions they make, balancing career and parenting. “Sorry About the Mess” runs until 30 March at 125 Shaftesbury Avenue, while the touring exhibition “Acts of Creation” opens in Dundee from 19 April to 13 July.

The UK exhibitions “Sorry About the Mess” and “Acts of Creation” reflect changing perceptions of motherhood in the arts, highlighting challenges that artist-mothers face. While societal attitudes are shifting toward acceptance, practical issues like childcare remain significant hurdles. These exhibitions not only celebrate artistic expression but also foster conversations about the intersection of motherhood and creativity.

Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com

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London is preparing to celebrate International Women’s Day with a host of events highlighting women’s voices and achievements in the ongoing fight for women’s rights. One standout event is the HighlightHer exhibition at Granary Square, featuring outdoor public art by London artist Hanna Benihoud. It showcases sixteen captivating artworks that narrate the stories of inspiring women.

Set to launch on Wednesday, 5 March, the exhibition will transform the art benches in King’s Cross. The illustrations depict everyday women achieving extraordinary feats, such as expertly applying makeup during rush hour or managing multiple tasks before 9 am.

The exhibition will run until 30 March, with each of the 16 benches dedicated to a different woman or group, spotlighting their often-overlooked contributions. “There is something about the ‘ordinariness’ of womanhood that is actually quite magical. HighlightHer is a chance to celebrate the quiet chaos and joy of ‘ordinary’ women’s daily lives,” stated Hanna Benihoud.

To further enhance the exhibition, Hanna invites the community to share stories of remarkable women in their lives. Selected stories will be illustrated to continue the project, and submissions can be made via the King’s Cross Instagram page.

Chrissy Cullen, Place Marketing Director at King’s Cross, expressed that this event aims to recognise the significant contributions of women. She remarked, “HighlightHer is our way of honouring the women in our community who inspire us with their extraordinary stories. We hope this installation will encourage everyone to reflect on the impact of these remarkable women.”

The HighlightHer exhibition will be displayed at Granary Square from 5 to 30 March, offering a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the stories of extraordinary women. For more information, visit the official King’s Cross website.

The HighlightHer exhibition in King’s Cross, launching on March 5, celebrates everyday women and their extraordinary stories, encouraging community involvement through shared narratives. With 16 benches illustrating these contributions, the event aims to honour and uplift women’s voices during International Women’s Day and beyond.

Original Source: secretldn.com

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This spring, Tate Modern welcomes South Korean artist Do Ho Suh with his exhibition “Walk the House,” a comprehensive survey of his work over the last three decades. This marks Suh’s first solo showing in London in over twenty years and includes new site-specific pieces alongside his notable installations, all designed to immerse visitors in his exploration of memory and space.

Central to Suh’s exhibition is the concept of home, viewing it as both a tangible structure and a metaphor for personal history. Inspired by the traditional Korean hanok house, which can be dismantled and reconstructed, Suh’s fabric artworks reflect themes of migration, identity, and the emotional ties we have to our living spaces. His statement, “The space I’m interested in is not only a physical one, but an intangible, metaphorical and psychological one,” underscores this theme.

Suh’s signature translucent architectural installations, made from meticulously crafted fabrics, recreate personal spaces like homes, allowing visitors to wander through and experience the walls as if they were intangible memories. Noteworthy installations include “Nest/s,” a vibrant labyrinth of tunnels, and “Perfect Home,” an outline of his London residence that highlights everyday details, encouraging reflections on the essence of home.

In addition to architectural replicas, Suh incorporates various mediums including sculpture, film, and drawing, providing a multifaceted view of memory. His piece “Who Am We?” features thousands of high school portraits, exploring interconnected personal histories. Another significant work, “Robin Hood Gardens,” captures the memory of a demolished housing estate, reinforcing Suh’s focus on spaces of transition and loss.

The exhibition is co-curated by Nabila Abdel and Dina Akhmadeeva, offering insights into Suh’s evolving artistry. Co-sponsored by the Genesis Art Initiatives, it highlights Tate Modern’s role in promoting contemporary Korean artists, following recent commissions such as Lee Bul’s work.

“Walk the House” is not merely an exhibition, but an experiential journey into memory and identity. Suh’s innovative use of space creates a reflective adventure through past and present notions of home. The exhibition runs from May 1 to October 19, providing a unique opportunity to engage with Suh’s extensive artistic narrative.

Do Ho Suh’s “Walk the House” provides an immersive exploration of space and identity through translucent installations and innovative art forms. By examining the concepts of home and memory, Suh invites visitors to reflect on their personal connections to spaces. This thought-provoking exhibition underscores the emotional dimensions of architecture and cultural identity, making it a significant event in contemporary art.

Original Source: stupiddope.com

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A new inclusive nightclub, Club House Hillingdon, opened its doors for the first time on February 27 at Brunel University in Uxbridge, catering specifically to young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Designed as a safe and enjoyable space, this initiative is an expansion of a successful programme launched by Orchard Hill College students in Sutton in 2023.

Tia, a 24-year-old former student of Orchard Hill College, expressed how Club House has boosted her confidence, allowing her to socialise as an adult. She noted the absence of suitable venues before this initiative, sharing that the club offers a friendly atmosphere where attendees can enjoy drinks with friends, feeling secure with the presence of staff and security.

The Club House not only facilitates social gatherings but also helps participants build skills for future jobs, with many former students getting involved in running the events. This initiative, supported by Sutton Council, has thrived since its inception, fostering a sense of community among attendees.

Kelly Phillips, Executive Principal of Orchard Hill College, emphasised the importance of providing SEND young people with opportunities similar to their neurotypical peers. She highlighted that the club is entirely managed by SEND individuals, aiming to break down barriers and celebrate diversity in a fun environment.

Club House events occur monthly, with the next event scheduled for March 27 at Brunel University’s Hamilton Centre. Tickets are available at the door or online through Eventbrite, and each ticket includes a free pass for one carer.

The launch of Club House Hillingdon marks a significant step towards inclusivity for young adults with SEND, offering them social and employment opportunities. With strong support from local educational institutions and the community, these events aim to create a safe space for connection and empowerment, demonstrating that everyone deserves a chance to enjoy nightlife and develop important life skills.

Original Source: www.mylondon.news

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London artist Penny Goring showcases her new exhibition, “Cold Hunt Corsage,” at Arcadia Missa, featuring large-scale collages that blend her personal trauma with fantastical imagery. Goring reflects on the dystopian nature of the world, stating, “The world seems dystopian to me. I make it like I see it.” Her art captures complex emotions, such as humour and grief, through a mix of everyday materials and old technologies like Microsoft Paint.

In her work, Goring uses bold text and contrasting visuals to express vulnerability. Her collages, known as macros, combine visual poetry with personal experience. She laments, “Everything I make is on some level a suicide note, that’s how I’m still here.” Her pieces often provoke introspection on societal issues and individual narratives.

Goring started creating visual poetry using MS Paint in 2012, becoming part of the alternative literature community. Her choice of medium is deliberate, citing the program’s imperfections: “It’s lo-fi, erratic, unprofessional, unreliable… a free toy.” The limitations of MS Paint prompt her creativity, steering her away from commercial graphic design.

Penny Goring’s exhibition at Arcadia Missa highlights the emotional depths of her art, blending personal experiences with a critique of the world. Through her large-scale collages and the unique use of MS Paint, Goring invites viewers to engage with her visual poetry, reflecting both fear and love inherent in life. The exhibition runs until 15 April 2025, offering a space for personal and political reflection.

Original Source: www.wallpaper.com

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A Hereford artist, James Mason, hosted a successful solo exhibition at Frevd Gallery’s basement venue on Shaftesbury Avenue, London, on 2nd February 2025. The event attracted a diverse group of art enthusiasts, collectors, and critics. The collection highlighted abstract art principles, embracing freedom of form and vivid colour, which encouraged a personal engagement with the artwork.

Mason’s pieces are recognised for their vibrant colours and textures, representing his deep exploration of human emotions. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, leading to several paintings being sold at the exhibition. James expressed his satisfaction, stating, “We’re thrilled with the response—this solo exhibition in Frevd Gallery’s underground space offered the perfect atmosphere for such a personal and immersive experience.”

Visitors appreciated the opportunity to discuss the artist’s creative process and inspirations. For those who missed the event, select works will still be on display at Frevd Gallery until 2nd March 2025. Mason has previously showcased his art alongside renowned artists like Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin, further bolstering his credentials in the art world.

James Mason’s solo exhibition in London successfully showcased the essence of abstract art, captivating attendees with vibrant, emotionally charged pieces. The positive feedback and sales reflect his rising profile in the art community, emphasising the significant impact of such exhibitions on both the artist and the audience.

Original Source: www.herefordtimes.com

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A new group exhibition titled ‘Yay, To Have a Mouth!’ is on at the Rose Easton gallery in East London, created in collaboration with Ginny on Frederick. This show examines our complex relationship with the mouth, exploring themes from psychoanalysis to storytelling.

Mouths play a crucial role in connecting our insides to the outside world, serving various functions from eating to expressing emotions. Freud’s theories highlight how an obsession with oral behaviour can persist from childhood into adulthood, inspiring artists to create visceral works reflecting this relationship.

Key pieces include Maggi Hambling’s ‘Prelude’ featuring melting teeth, and Hannah Murray’s ‘Miss Golden’ which portrays a woman with a cigarette, echoing dangerous oral fixations. The exhibition includes works by Jenkin Van Zyl and Rebecca Ackroyd, blending themes of body horror with ecstatic expressions.

Freddie Powell, a collaboration partner, indicates the show features artists who aren’t typically showcased, resulting in a diverse mix exploring bodily and storytelling traditions. The exhibition arose from discussions about the mouth’s various roles in communication and cultural storytelling, influenced by psychoanalytic discourse.

Each artist’s work approaches oral history differently, with Jenkin Van Zyl’s grotesque cake heads providing a humorous twist. Humour is a consistent theme, as Powell mentions the campness in their programming. This playful exhibition delves into our ongoing oral preoccupations, showing that such interests continue into adulthood.

‘Yay, To Have a Mouth!’ runs until 29 March 2025 at Rose Easton gallery. Curator Emily Steer, a cultural journalist, underscores the show’s ability to provoke emotions and reactions, paralleling the complexities of the mouth itself.

The exhibition ‘Yay, To Have a Mouth!’ at Rose Easton gallery highlights the multifaceted relationship we have with our mouths, exploring themes of psychology, storytelling, and bodily representations. Featuring a variety of artists, the display provocatively intertwines humour and grotesque expressions, showcasing how oral fixations persist into adulthood. Overall, it reveals the significant impact this often-overlooked body part has on our lives.

Original Source: www.wallpaper.com

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Soils globally face severe issues such as pollution, over-fertilisation, and degradation. Society often overlooks the complex ecosystems thriving within soils, which consist of vital partnerships among plant roots, mycorrhizal fungi, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Remarkably, these networks make up nearly half of soil’s living biomass and are critical in storing carbon, retaining three times more than the living biomass above ground.

The exhibition “SOIL: The World at Our Feet” at Somerset House, London highlights this vital aspect of our ecosystem through striking artistic representations, running until 13 April. Co-curated by Henrietta Courtauld and Bridget Elworthy, it aims to elevate the understanding of soil’s importance.

Artworks included feature innovative ceramics by Jo Pearl and bacterial colony photography by Elze Hesse, with visual pieces like “Fly Agaric I” by Marshmallow Laser Feast showcasing underground symbiotic networks. These pieces encourage viewers to appreciate the hidden life in soil, often dismissed as merely dirt.

As stated by Jo Pearl, “We can’t cherish what we don’t know. And if we are to save our soil, we must take a closer look at what is often dismissed as ‘dirt’ and realise our lives depend on its aliveness.” The exhibition serves as a call to action to recognise and conserve our vital soil resources.

The complexities and life forms within soil are essential for environmental balance and carbon storage. The ongoing exhibition at Somerset House seeks to enrich public understanding and appreciation of soil, stressing its crucial role in our ecosystem. Recognising soil as more than just dirt is imperative for sustainability. Artworks on display elevate awareness and inspire action towards soil conservation.

Original Source: www.newscientist.com

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Derrick Adams explores themes of Black Americana in his exhibition, ‘Situation Comedy’, at Gagosian London. He describes the show as a fantastical representation of American life, filled with vivid imagery that captures everyday moments. However, beneath the joyful surface lie subtle critiques of cultural rituals, particularly those associated with childhood experiences like Easter and its inherent contradictions.

One painting, ‘Good Egg, Bad Bunny’, challenges the innocence of holiday traditions, prompting viewers to question the absurdities of ceremonial practices from childhood. Adams comments on the disconnect between childhood experiences and adult reflections, encouraging audiences to reconsider their participation in such rituals.

The artwork incorporates significant historical references, blending contemporary and traditional symbols. In ‘Baked In’, Adams nods to art history, while ‘Fantastic Voyage’ features faces on vessels inspired by unrecorded Black potters of the nineteenth century, highlighting African art and its cultural legacy.

In ‘Sweetening the Pot’, Adams playfully reimagines the faith vessels as cups of Kool-Aid, combining domestic settings with Pop Art influences. His use of bold colours and Cubist-style facets enhances the surrealism of these everyday scenes, emphasizing the unique aspects of human expression.

Adams reflects on his artistic journey, revealing his fascination with African tourist sculptures that lacked authentic craftsmanship. He appreciates their flawed nature, viewing them as a more humanistic representation of diversity in creativity. ‘Situation Comedy’ will be on display until March 22, 2024, prompting discussions about identity and cultural legacy.

Derrick Adams’ ‘Situation Comedy’ offers a vibrant yet critical examination of Black Americana through playful imagery and cultural references. His work encourages viewers to reflect on the contradictions in childhood rituals while celebrating the diversity and richness of African art. The exhibition invites curiosity and engagement with important historical artifacts and contemporary expressions, making it a significant cultural commentary.

Original Source: www.wallpaper.com

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