I went to the preview evening last Friday. It was pouring with rain and it was dark. The exhibition includes pieces of art inside and outside. So it was maybe not the best time to go!
My friend Karen (the professional artist) had 2 pieces in a narrow claustrophobic close. She had already decided to remove the artwork each night as it was vulnerable to damage. However, given it was the opening night they were still hanging at 9pm. Sadly (unbelievably, annoyingly, frustratingly aaaarrrrrggghhhhh!!!!!!) the main piece - Banana Split - had been smashed. Between 7.45pm and 9pm the glass was smashed and it had been yanked loose from the wall. The actual banana piece wasn't damaged and she was able to re glaze it and hang it again on the Saturday. It is now taken down at 5pm each night!
It is a wonderful piece. Combined with its companion - Little Girls Flower - it suits the narrow dingy close. With the added sound effects of rowdy neighbours and pouring rain it is an unsettling viewing.
And she should feel very proud!
I'll reserve my opinion of the festival until I see it again in daylight. The outside elements seemed to lack something... not enough of them maybe... maybe I just don't get some of them.
There is a wonderful room at the
YMCA which charts the drawing skills of children. I found it especially interesting given Toddler Girls mark making.
My favourite has to be the sign language alphabet.
