In return presents the latest work of Returns, a group of artist researchers from Sheffield Hallam University and Nottingham Trent University who have been exploring the legacy of post industrial landscapes and production. Several members are participants in Topographies of the Obsolete.
Chloe Brown | Andrew Brown | Joanne Lee | Danica Maier | Christine Stevens | Debra Swann
Returns developed from Topographies of the Obsolete, an international cross-disciplinary project initiated by Bergen Academy of Art and Design, Norway which used the former Spode ceramics factory in Stoke-on-Trent as a place from which to consider urban ruins, and the artefacts to be found there. Since then, the researchers have focused their attention on other locations including brownfield sites in Sheffield, the brick works of Staffordshire, and the streets of Detroit, and they have repurposed objects and patterns derived from historical ceramics and the domestic contexts in which they would normally be used.
The work here includes large scale wall drawings, sculpture, video, sound, photography and practices of walking; whilst the artists work independently to pursue their own inquiry, they return to bring their diverse findings into proximity, creating a critical conversation about making and re-making in the post industrial age.
Exhibition is open 10-5pm from 2nd until 21st of February.
Lunchtime Seminar
Wednesday 3rd February 1-2pm, Gallery
Chloë Brown and Joanne Lee will speak about the Returns research project.
Andrew Brown Sound Walk
Wednesday 10th February 1-2pm, meet at Gallery
Using each of the artworks in the exhibition as points of departure, Andrew Brown has created a sound walk that guides participants through the SIA Gallery. Pre–loaded onto iPods available to borrow from reception, the soundtrack will last for around 30 minutes. Numbers are limited to twelve people on a first come first served basis. After the walk there will be an opportunity to discuss the experience with the artist and fellow participants.
Joanne Lee In Conversation
Wednesday 17th February 7-8pm, Gallery
Joanne Lee will be in conversation about her ongoing work on the terrain vague, in an event in collaboration with Practising Place: a programme of conversations about art practice and place, curated by Elaine Speight and Prof Charles Quick of In Certain Places, University of Central Lancashire.