The AIR OPEN 2024 Exhibition: A Showcase of Emerging Artists
The seventh annual AIR OPEN exhibition, currently on display at Rogue Artists Studios CIC in Gorton, is a must-see event for art enthusiasts in the North West. Featuring the work of 43 emerging and early-career artists selected through an open-call submission process, this exhibition promises a diverse and engaging collection of artworks that are sure to captivate visitors.
AIR Gallery CIC, the organization behind the exhibition, is dedicated to providing opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their work in various locations across the North West. The AIR OPEN 2024 exhibition is a testament to their commitment to supporting and promoting the talent of these artists, offering them a platform to share their creative visions with a wider audience.
Exploring the Exhibition
The Rogue Artists Studios CIC, housed in a former school, provides a unique backdrop for the exhibition. The artists’ studios, spread across the classrooms, and the exhibition space in the former sports hall create an immersive experience for visitors, allowing them to explore a wide range of artworks in a captivating setting.
One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is a triptych of portraits by the artist ANDI, which serves as a poignant reflection on the treatment of trans identities as a political spectacle. The artist’s meticulous process of painting the blood systems of the subjects before layering the skin with paint results in visually striking and conceptually compelling artworks that invite viewers to delve deeper into the themes explored.
Justine Lesage’s ‘World’s Best Dad’ and Kelan Andrews’ ‘Scene’ offer intriguing perspectives on contemporary culture and societal norms. Lesage’s frilly, cigarette-adorned celebration cake challenges traditional notions of fatherhood, while Andrews’ transformation of a Georgian-style dolls house into a modern-day squat raises questions about consumerism and waste in our society. These thought-provoking pieces invite viewers to reconsider their perceptions and engage with the artworks on a deeper level.
Interactive Experiences and Emotional Connections
The exhibition also features interactive elements that engage visitors on a more personal level. Hang Zhang’s ‘Llama Card Deck’ offers a playful twist on tarot cards, inspired by the artist’s experiences in Peru. Visitors can participate in live tarot readings using the quirky llama-themed cards, adding a fun and interactive dimension to their exhibition experience.
Bill Psarras’ video artwork, ‘2423’, provides a mesmerizing and emotionally resonant experience for viewers. The gentle act of peeling plaster from one participant’s hands by another evokes a sense of tenderness and connection that is both intimate and moving. It serves as a powerful reminder of the emotional impact of art and the ability of artworks to evoke a range of emotions in viewers.
The curators of the exhibition have done an excellent job of creating a cohesive and visually fluid experience for visitors, despite the diverse range of artworks on display. The seamless transitions between pieces allow viewers to navigate the exhibition space with ease, ensuring that each artwork is given the attention it deserves.
Visit the AIR OPEN 2024 Exhibition
The AIR OPEN 2024 exhibition is open to visitors on Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 3pm until Saturday, September 21st. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the work of talented emerging artists and immerse yourself in a captivating display of creativity. For more information about the exhibition, visit airgallery.space and plan your visit today.
As you navigate the exhibition space at Rogue Artists Studios CIC, take the time to engage with the artworks on a deeper level, allowing them to provoke thought, evoke emotions, and inspire reflection. The AIR OPEN 2024 exhibition offers a unique opportunity to connect with the creative visions of emerging artists and experience the power of art in a transformative and meaningful way.