The West Gallery at Quay Arts Centre in Newport is currently hosting a new exhibition by two Isle of Wight artists.
Rag and Bones is a compelling joint installation by artists Teresa Grimaldi (installation, puppetry) and Sarah Vardy (print, fine art). Their distinct, process-led practices are rooted in a surprising shared connection to the Isle of Wight.
The resulting synergy, Rag and Bones, was shown very briefly as a pop-up exhibition for during the 2019 Ventnor Fringe. It was then packed away and has been unseen for these past years, making this presentation at Quay Arts its much-anticipated return.
The Work: Print, Paint, and Bone
The exhibition uses diverse mediums to explore structure, dialogue, and transformation in a theatrical and tactile environment.
The artists work with bones and anatomical forms, where skeletal structures become large canvases for paint, print and small scale puppet tableaus.
Sarah Vardy’s pieces are built upon an intensive process of experimenting with frottage on canvas, creating large monoprints through multiple layered rubbings, which she then develops further with acrylics and oils.
These structures are joined by small characters magically taking shape from found objects and natural materials. Assembled by Teresa Grimaldi, the figures enter the scene to converse with the canvases.
A shared process of shadow play and projection
Crucially, the installation incorporates a shared process of shadow play and projection.
This blending and amplifying of the physical works creates immersive, shifting environments that actively invite viewer interaction.
See the artists in action
Part of the gallery has been transformed into an in-residence studio, where the artists will develop collaborative shadow experiments.
Teresa will also be creating new work on site, giving visitors the opportunity to see the artists at work and engage directly with their process and material-led approach.
Where and when
Rag and Bones runs daily (9am-4pm) at Quay Arts, until Monday 2nd February 2026.
Entry is free.
