An opportunity to have an exhibition of postgraduate work in the heart of the city of Lincoln was one not to be missed. With the kind support of the Lincolnshire Co-operative, the proposed MA Degree Show exhibition moved from its usual home at Greestone, to two empty retail outlets in Sincil Street, Lincoln, which is in the very heart of Lincoln's downhill shopping area.
Dr Catherine Burge, Programme Leader for MA Fine Art, writes in the exhibition catalogue "It can be argued that for research and creative practice to be relevant it must be able to withstand the scrutiny of both the general public as well as that of peers, professional, researchers and academics". This is what makes this year's exhibition more interesting; its interaction with the other street occupants, as well as the general public at large, even our canine friends!
Vitrine is part of a concerted move to bring the School's activities out of the School and into a much bigger public domain. Works from students of MA Design and MA Conservation of Historic Objects can be seen at no 38 Sincil Street, whilst work from MA Fine Art is on show on both floors of no 47.
The shows open to the public on Tuesday 11 September until Saturday 15 September, and again from Tuesday 18 until Saturday 22 September, 10 am - 4 pm. Entrance is free, and comments are most welcome in the guest book provided.
MA Fine Art graduate Becky Barmby, who has just secured a position working in the art sector as a PR consultant, was highly instrumental in coordinating this year's show. "It's been a really sharp learning curve as we have had to create an exhibition from scratch. It's been much more of a real life experience as this is what artists have to do in the outside world".
Steve Dutton, Professor in Contemporary Art Practice at the School commented that "Lincoln is currently buzzing with a rapidly growing number of artists and designers who are electing to stay in the city and the end of their studies. These artists are proceeding to set up a huge range of projects, events, gallery spaces and studios and are making a real contribution to the cultural life of Lincoln and the region".
Emma Sneddon, spokesperson for Lincolnshire Co-Operative added: "We are delighted to be able to support the efforts of these postgraduate students. We've been involved with the University for a number of years and providing exhibition space is jut one of many ways we work together".
