John Barleycorn Must Die, 2019 by Matt Rowe

Highlights: 25 November - 1 December, 2024

New Art Highlights includes: Anthony Garratt, Matt Rowe, Karen Melvin and Ken Turner

THE MELT, 2024

Anthony Garratt

The Melt, by Anthony Garratt, floated giant, double sided paintings of Arctic Icebergs on swinging moorings during the Summer months in temperate coastal locations in Devon, UK. The reference footage was sent by inspiring, modern-day explorers of the changing Arctic landscape. The floating platforms were made by the artist using reclaimed scaffolding, panels and barrels. Natural and organic linseed oil paint was used to paint the icebergs. The Melt film was made using camera footage from handheld phones. The project is a poetic nod to the demise of these geographical marvels and also a tribute to the spirit of modern exploration. In a reference to time, and changing global landscapes; as the paintings swung on their moorings with each switch of the tide, the reverse of the painting panels depicted paintings of icebergs referencing photographs of Arctic Icebergs from the 1800s.

John Barleycorn must Die, 2019

Matt Rowe

John Barleycorn created by the artist Matt Rowe with the aide of Carol Partridge, a member of the Guild of Straw Craftsmen. The mask and adornments to the costume are woven with heritage varieties of cereal crop. In both the beer and the body of John Barleycorn heritage strands of barley make an appearance, his contemporary presence crafted from a history of agricultural methods and folk traditions.

Twisted Wrapped, 2019 - 2024

Karen Melvin

A large free hanging canvas with torn photographs recycled from past exhibition glued on then painting continued in new response, here about war in Ukraine in relation to a garden.