Amy Gear - Louise Davidge - Rory Price - Emma Coote - Helen Whitham - Sarah Sidgewick
The New Graduates show comprises of six artists who grew up on Shetland and have recently graduated in 2012 with an honours degree (BA Hons) from art schools across mainland Scotland. The selected artists have studied a broad range of subjects varying from printmaking, painting and photography to textiles and jewellery.
Eager to showcase their work, the graduates approached the Museum with the idea of an exhibition which would not only feature their degree show but also new work made since their graduation. They hope the exhibition will pave the way for future graduating Shetland artists as well as inspire young artists to see the possibilities in pursuing a fine art or design degree course at one of the main art schools in Scotland.
Amy Gear studied Printmaking at Grays School of Art in Aberdeen, where she is now working as Artist in Residence. Gear's interest in landscape, local customs and beliefs translate into monochromatic, large scale prints. She is particularly interested in preserving these 'layers of place' through her art practice.
Louise Davidge also studied Printmaking at Grays School of Art in Aberdeen. The use of a variety of Printmaking processes such as lithography, screenprinting and etching helps to create detail in the intimacy of her prints. Producing works which act as forms of memorabilia, portraying the grown interest of her family history.
Rory Price studied Painting at Glasgow School of Art. With an intention of making contrasting pieces of work, Price's work can be messy and frantic or calm and reflective. The idea of creating still images in a society that favours the moving image is what drives Price's artwork, viewing each painting as an avatar or window on a computer screen.
Emma Coote studied Photography and Film at Edinburgh Napier University. Her final year project looks into the issue of graduate employability in 2012. She has used the technique of photomontage to show the chaotic nature of the recession and its effect on recent graduate employability. Coote's focus since university has now turned to portraiture and her second body of work is a series of studio portraits and portraits shot on location.
Helen Whitham studied Textile Design at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, Dundee. Inspired by a love for Shetland, Whitham's knitwear is reminiscent of place, tradition and culture but with a fresh and contemporary twist. Detail, quality and craftsmanship are paramount in order to create knitwear with narratives that spark emotions and connections. The collection is focused on quality handcrafted garments that transcend seasons and can be worn and cherished countless times.
Sarah Sidgewick studied Jewellery at Grays School of Art in Aberdeen. With influence deriving from the natural world and organic forms, Sidgewick has been focusing on body dissatisfaction and the negative consequences of our growing preoccupation with image in society. These carefully handmade pieces incorporate traditional techniques such as piercing, soldering, repousse and casting.
John Hunter, Shetland Museum and Archives exhibitions officer: "There is a rapidly expanding visual arts culture in Shetland. This show once again highlights the importance of the creative arts as an essential part of the local and national economy. The diversity of work being produced shows there's a broad base to this "industry" and the new generation coming through display the confidence and assuredness needed to make the most of their training and talents."
The exhibition runs from 12th January – 17th February 2013. For further information please contact John Hunter at the Shetland Museum and Archives on 01595 741559 or exhibitions@shetland-museum.org.uk.