Is the world a stage, and are we merely players? Laura Ford's latest exhibition, Under This Roof, at Bo Lee and Workman in Bruton, Somerset, promises to blur the lines between reality and the fantastical, inviting viewers into a wonderland where the absurd reigns supreme.
From July 6th to September 8th, 2024, the former chapel will transform into a theatre of the unexpected, showcasing new works by the British artist. Ford, known for her playful yet unsettling sculptures, invites us to leave our preconceived notions at the door and step into a world where anything is possible. This exhibition, years in the making, is a testament to Ford's enduring artistic vision and her ability to craft narratives that resonate with both the familiar and the strange. The pieces synthesise complex musings on religion with the artist's unique perspective, developed over a decade or more. The Bruton space, a relatively new gallery, provides a fitting backdrop for Ford's exploration of the human condition, challenging viewers to confront their vulnerabilities and embrace the unknown.
Laura Ford's artistic journey, marked by a career spanning over four decades, has consistently pushed the boundaries of sculptural practice. Her work, often described as both humorous and disquieting, delves into the complexities of human experience, exploring themes of identity, vulnerability, and the interplay between the real and the imagined. The artist's upbringing, rooted in a theatrical fairground family, has undoubtedly influenced her artistic sensibilities, shaping her ability to create captivating narratives that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. The exhibition at Bo Lee and Workman is poised to be another significant chapter in her ongoing exploration of these themes.
| Bio Data/Personal Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Laura Ford |
| Birth Date | 1961 |
| Birthplace | Cardiff, Wales |
| Education | Bath Academy of Art (1978-82), Cooper Union School of Art, New York (period), Chelsea School of Art, London (Postgraduate) |
| Family Background | Grew up around a theatrical fairground family |
| Known For | Playful, humorous, and often disquieting sculptures, hybrid characters, exploration of inner vulnerabilities. |
| Artistic Style | Works with soft fabrics, materials, found objects, and bronze to create depictions of imagined or fantastical characters. |
Ford's artistic practice is characterized by a deep understanding of materials and a remarkable ability to transform them into compelling narratives. Whether working with soft fabrics, found objects, or bronze, she imbues her sculptures with a sense of life and personality, inviting viewers to connect with the characters she creates on an emotional level. The artist’s skillful use of materials, coupled with her evocative storytelling, allows her to explore the complexities of human experience with sensitivity and insight. Her art avoids any notion of simplistic, easy answers, leaving the viewers with questions as well.
A significant element of Ford's artistry lies in her creation of hybrid characters, figures that exist in the liminal space between human and animal, child and adult. These figures, neither wholly one thing nor the other, unlock our inner vulnerabilities, prompting us to engage with our inner child. This approach allows Ford to tap into universal emotions and experiences, creating artwork that transcends cultural boundaries and speaks to the core of the human condition. Her work offers reflections upon human nature.
The exhibition at Bo Lee and Workman is not just a display of sculptures; it's an immersive experience. The former chapel will become a stage for Ford's theatrical vision, with each piece contributing to a larger narrative. The setting itself, a space steeped in history, will further enhance the impact of the artwork, creating a dialogue between the past and the present. The gallery’s architecture will serve as a counterpoint to the fantastical elements of Ford's work. The installation at Bruton presents a unique opportunity for viewers to experience Ford's artistry in a space that is both intimate and expansive, allowing for a deeper engagement with her artistic vision.
The artist's journey has taken her to various prestigious platforms. In 2003, Ford presented animal figures at the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea, describing them as sculptures dressed up as animals which are dressed up as people. That same year, she showcased a major installation at the Dick Institute in Kilmarnock and held a solo show, The Great Indoors, at the Harris Museum and Art Gallery in Preston. Her work has also been featured in public projects, including Bird Boy, which is part of The Line, London's dedicated modern and contemporary art walk.
Ford's work often grapples with the concept of transformation. The metamorphosis of materials, from humble beginnings to their ultimate form, mirrors the transformations experienced within the human psyche. Her sculptures are not merely static objects; they are catalysts for introspection, prompting viewers to confront their own vulnerabilities and embrace the complexities of the world around them. The exhibition in Bruton promises to be another exploration of this transformative power, inviting audiences to consider the nature of change and its impact on our lives.
The exhibition Under This Roof promises to be an experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. Ford's art invites audiences to enter a world where imagination reigns supreme, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, and where the potential for self-discovery is boundless. The show is set to be one of the most captivating art events of the year, showcasing Ford's innovative approach to sculpture and her unique ability to touch the deepest parts of the human experience.
The lasting impact of Ford's work lies in her ability to create art that transcends time and place. Her sculptures speak to universal human experiences, engaging with emotions and ideas that resonate with viewers of all ages and backgrounds. The exhibition at Bo Lee and Workman offers a valuable opportunity to experience Ford’s art and to engage with the world through her singular, insightful lens. As the show draws near, anticipation grows for the opening of the door of the exhibition, as it unveils the world imagined by the artist.
