Exhibition of sea journeys to places of refuge and sanctuary

A NEW exhibition entitled Undertow is coming to The Whittox Gallery at RISE next month, by artist Pauline Scott-Garrett. 

The exhibition is inspired by a research-based residency the artist started last year at the gallery, to undertake an archival search of documents, newspaper reports and photographs, of people fleeing danger and religious persecution travelling across Europe and young people evacuated from London during WW11 to Frome.

A spokesperson from the gallery, Sara, said, “Pauline was the gallery’s first ever artist in residence. RISE is a compelling location for this research-residency, as a former chapel of worship and now a beautifully restored arts and lifestyle venue that continues the role as a place of refuge and sanctuary. The chapel, once known as the Zion Chapel, and the town of Frome have provided shelter to several generations of people displaced by war or persecution. Flight and migration remain potent issues today and provide the context of the large-scale print works and multi-media pieces in this exhibition.”

Pauline Scott-Garrett was awarded a National Lottery Project Grant, Develop Your Creative Practice, by Arts Council England to undertake the project.

Sara added, “Pauline’s research, of which some inspiration found in Frome Heritage Museum’s archives, has led to the use of images of fragile garments, a silhouette of a boat bow, as well as coastal maps, motifs, and found images, to evoke rather than depict, a human presence within the work.

“The work invites us to reflect on the sea journeys undertaken by so many to reach a place of safety. Adopting a somewhat sombre tone, with colours like pink, pewter, or pale green, these works suggest an otherness and gently reflect an unsettling dialogue between history and beauty, driven by a resonant undertow of loss or dislocation.”

Pauline is also collaborating with artist and art educator Emma Kerr to develop practical art workshops with Vallis School (formerly Milk Street School) and the Open Storytellers (based at RISE) as part of the project.

Sara said, “Drawing Projects UK, where Pauline has her studio, will also be presenting online Drawing Discussions to accompany the exhibition, convened by Professor Anita Taylor. These will include discussions with Pauline Scott-Garrett and Gary Sangster, curator, about the project and its impact. These live online sessions will be recorded and will be available on the Drawing Projects UK YouTube channel afterwards.

“Opening night will be Friday 15th September from 6.30pm to 9pm – All welcome.”

For more information, please email info@thewhittoxgallery.com; www.thewhittoxgallery.com @thewhittoxgallery. The Whittox Gallery, RISE, Whittox Lane, BA113BY.