It’s been an amazing experience, actually being a part of an art exhibition in my own right. Not only represented in the artist’s work that I’ve framed, but actually representing myself, my business and my skills.
It started way back during the first Covid lockdown in 2020. A group of us who already knew each other through various creative networks continued to meet weekly via good old Zoom. It proved to be a really powerful new kind of norm. We’re a mixed bunch, of backgrounds, skills and interests.
Having met for many months, Axiom emerged described as a group of Kent creatives who “connected in a time of disconnect”. A germ of an idea formed as restrictions started to lift, we should mount an exhibition. It would be an unusual exhibition because a picture framer and a branding designer would be represented alongside artists specialising in various mediums. How would these “non-artists” be represented?
Stella Chapman of Salt Design had already created the group’s logo, website and social media platforms’ so a brand and standard had already been set. It was natural that she should control the promotion of the exhibition with beautifully designed physical posters, meeting the needs of the gallery and similarly designed social media posts. At the exhibition Salt Design’s physical presence was minimal save to say each artist’s statement was beautifully branded and presented, but it didn’t stop there. A review of Axiom’s first exhibition featured in “Salt: Works”, Salt Design’s newspaper for artists, movers and makers. It also featured articles contributed by a number of exhibitors. These stylish newspapers were available for all visiting the exhibition to take a copy.
So how was Edge represented? For technical reasons proposed video demonstrations didn’t happen, but inspired by a recently completed prestigious job I framed the same image five times using five different mount techniques, and mouldings. Not only did this show how changes in colour, technique, scale and moulding alters an image, accompanying each were notes explaining how and why each was completed. For me, just as important were the easy to read notes explaining the importance of quality framing and how it protects artwork. Examples of damaged work were available showing what to avoid when having artwork framed.
Hosted by Nucleus Arts’ Halpern Gallery, “Exposed” featuring contemporary/abstract paintings by Zel Hunt and France Tetreault and fused glass, sculpture and watercolours by Jeanette Cook was an amazing success on so many levels. Described by visitors as, “More white cube of serious work than salon of Sunday painters”. “One of the best exhibitions ever to be held at the Halpern Gallery”. “Like all good exhibitions, it leaves you wanting more”; and “Really professional and beautifully displayed” is something we should all be proud of.
By the magic of video (which I’m still practising), I bring you “Exposed”. I hope you enjoy.
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