Curator’s notes
Nick Waugh describes his thoughts about the curation of the OUT OF THE DARK exhibition at View Art Gallery
The theme for this exhibition evolved whilst discussing the difficulties many people are having approaching Christmas. For some, whether it be economically, physically or mentally, it is a time when stresses and anxieties are magnified. The imagery of Christmas offers us many nostalgic symbols, generating heightened emotions from our memories. ‘Out of the Dark’ extends the use of symbolism beyond the festive season and considers how we use our imaginations to represent, or escape from, our anxieties. In this collection, the artists deal with depression, abuse, identity, addiction and loss.
Drawing from personal experience and observation, sometimes subconsciously, the artists ‘act out' emotions using puppetry, toys, childhood scenes, expressive figures and ethereal beings. At first glance some of the imagery can appear sinister, even horrific. We can also see beauty, playfulness and humour. There is ambiguity in many of the characters’ mental state. Are they screaming with joy or fear? Are they in turmoil or at peace? Are they laughing when we aren’t looking? I love art that has a narrative that we respond to in a different way, depending on our state of mind and any personal connection we make.
I also enjoy art that changes with us. At times the art may be a reminder of dark periods in our lives and trigger an uncomfortable response. Other days, we may feel empathy or warmth as we reflect on a journey to a brighter future. In good moments, we may rejoice in the light of what we have become.
High impact art, which is the View house style, can be appreciated on many different levels. We can be attracted to the aesthetic, we may marvel at the technique or react to the narrative, with or without thought. In this exhibition, we can cycle through all the different levels and engage with the art in our own way.