Thanks to Georgia for sharing details of this brilliant exhibition. Ed
The Art of Democracy explores ideas of democracy through material culture, popular culture and participatory arts. Works in The West Gallery and Learning Curve Gallery are aimed to celebrate, interrogate and allow visitors to participate in The Art of Democracy.
The exhibition coincides with the 800th anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta, 750 years since De Montfort parliament, the 2015 UK Election, and arrives at a time where we question the art of democratic debate.
We invited a varied group of artists across the Isle of Wight to help us define and challenge ideas around the art of democracy in the gallery. They are:
Paradox Paul & Maya Malfatti Woods
John Armstrong & Ian Boyd
The New Carnival Company
Daniel Roberts
Nick Martin
What to see
Works by Paradox Paul dominate the West Gallery space in the shape of two throne installations. Rather than having defined individual practice, Paul works towards strong various projects, however humour and subversion remain a constant throughout his work.
Have your say at the polling station
The space also features documentary footage and works by artist and inventor Daniel Roberts on his quest to find a new name for TTIP. Visitors can add to this by filling out the form with their suggestions.
Quay Arts are also asking for suggestions at the polling station towards the end of the gallery – have your say and this will inform future activities in the gallery.
The New Carnival Company present works in both the Learning Curve and West Gallery through their Magna Carta Mardi Gras costumes.
Election Poetry Slam Night
The makers of audio work, Dubious Democracies in the annexe at the end of the gallery, will also present a special Election Poetry Slam Night here in The West Gallery on Thursday 17 September – don’t miss out!
Exhibition continues until Saturday 19th September /// Poetry Slam Night by Chorderize: Thursday 17th September, 7.30pm
Image: © Paradox Paul
