A new exhibition about Cumbria’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic has opened at the Rheged Centre, near Penrith.
Through the Locking Glass is an exhibition of the work Cumbrian artists created during lockdown.
It was inspired by author David Felton’s work Through the Locking Glass – What Cumbrian Artists did through Lockdown and features 160 pieces of fine art, illustrations, prints, photography, poetry, 3D art and sculpture by 80 Cumbrian artists.
David said: “The story of Through the Locking Glass was one of Cumbrian passion, creativity and inspiration in the toughest of times.
“To be able to see some of the original art from the book, along with new works, is a cause both for celebration – and reflection.
“It will also give artists a much-needed boost after a long period without events and exhibitions where the public can view and buy their work.”
Amy Williams, of Kendal, won the commission to create a piece that reflected the essence of the pandemic.
Her 3D Cumbrian paper landscape encourages visitors to actively engage with the exhibition and share their stories.
Amy said: “My vision for this commission was to create a playful yet thoughtful paper art installation with elements of the written word in response to the diverse range of people’s experiences over the pandemic.
“Sculptural components are installed in the space built up from the floor and hung from the ceiling and surrounded by a paper freeze on the wall.”
Programming and partnership manager Claire Logan-Stephens said: “It has been an absolute joy to bring this exhibition to fruition at Rheged and along the way to hear so many amazing stories of how the lockdowns influenced the artists’ work.
“We have captured these in the film, sound and written interpretation which supports the exhibition. Amy’s work is just beautiful and a wonderful addition to the exhibition.
“We look forward to seeing how this evolves as visitors share their memories of lockdown, a selection of which will be recreated in paper to add to the ongoing story of the installation.”
Through the Locking Glass spotlights how Cumbrian artists responded in different ways to 14 months of pandemic and the three lockdowns.
For some artists, the lockdowns were their most creative time, with no interruptions, while others found new inspiration or worked in very different ways, using new techniques or materials.
A collaborative effort, the exhibition is supported by the Arts Council and artworks were selected by a panel including representatives from Anti-Racist Cumbria, Prism Arts, University of Cumbria and Eden Arts.
Through the Locking Glass opens in Rheged’s Gallery runs until Sunday September 5 and most of the 160 artworks are for sale.
It is open daily from 9am to 5.30pm. Entry is free but pre-book a time slot at rheged.com or at the desk on arrival.
