Pictured above: Octopus by Pam Wilcox
The UK’s South West Mosaic Artists’ annual Picking up the Pieces exhibition runs from 23 March to 14 April at the Sou’-Sou’-West Contemporary Arts Gallery, in the Symondsbury Estate in Dorset. Manya McMahon previews some of the works on show.
By Manya McMahon
As the exhibition title Picking up the Pieces suggests, the artists select their subjects rather than working from a particular theme. But despite a huge diversity in the materials the artists use, and the approaches they take, themes do emerge.
Alison Hepburn is exhibiting two abstract mosaics created with unglazed ceramic tiles as a meditation on the land and seascapes of Devon and Cornwall.
Meanwhile, Rana Cullimore adores beachcombing for shells, driftwood and pebbles, which give many of her mosaics an element of the coast.
Living by the sea has drawn Audrey Hardman to depict marine life in her work: “I find the stained-glass medium with all its reflective qualities gives an organic feel and movement to my subjects,” she says.
Janet Ventre is also influenced by her surroundings: “Inspired by the seascape and the landscape around me, I create mosaic mirrors and artwork using, glass, porcelain and mirror.”
Other members of the group are passionate about light, colour and texture. “I particularly enjoy the ever-changing play of light through glass during the day and how it changes the mood of an artwork,” explains Allan Punton.
Pam Wilcox adds: “I enjoy the textures and movement – as well as the colour – that can be achieved through the medium.”
For some, the mosaic process is the motivation. Adela Webb is captivated by the vibrant interplay of colour and pattern, a passion that breathes life into her mosaic creations.
Visitors to the gallery will also enjoy works incorporating found objects, particularly by David Nicholls in his sculptural and 3D work. Judy Baker, who mixes traditional methods with more unconventional ways of working, uses glass, ceramic tiles, old crockery, sea glass and wire. And Charlotte Abberley uses a variety of found materials as well as ceramic and glass.
One artist uses the medium to draw attention to the plight of endangered species. Emma Abel makes wildlife mosaics, raising awareness through international competitions and those closer to home as well as exhibitions and environmental charities.
Picking up the Pieces showcases the diversity of style that the artists have brought to this ancient, but evolved art form. You may need to visit more than once to absorb the kaleidoscope of material, colour and form produced by these 16 artists!
South West Mosaic Artists group is a collective based in the South West of England. Established in 2019, it aims to highlight and showcase the enormous diversity of styles that contemporary artists in the region bring to this art form. The group holds exhibitions annually, as well as pop-up and smaller displays and selling exhibitions when and where the opportunity arises. This is the second time that the group has exhibited in this gallery, following a successful show in 2021.
Sou’-Sou’-West Contemporary Arts Gallery, Symondsbury Estate, Bridport DT6 6HG
Open daily, 10:30am – 4:30pm, from 23 March to 14 April
All photos courtesy of the artists.