FORWARD
ARGENTEA GALLERY, BIRMINGHAM
​July - August, 2019.

Forward, an exhibition of photographic work inspired by Birmingham’s industrial, political and social history. It explores facets of the city’s rich heritage through prints, installations and ceramics.

The use of the historical cyanotype process is central to this exhibition. Thomas Wedgwood, the son of famous potter and founding member of the Lunar Society Josiah Wedgwood, was an early experimenter in photography. However, his experiments resulted in shadow image photograms that quickly faded. The shadow-like images and striking ‘Wedgwood blue’ colour of the cyanotype process are a specific tribute to the work of both men.

The collection reflects Wilkinson’s deep fascination with the city and its history and is a site-specific response to her many visits to Birmingham over the years. Each piece relates to notable points in its history and to the remarkable people responsible for the city’s identity.

Argentea Gallery, 28 St. Paul's Square, Birmingham. www.argenteagallery.com email: [email protected]

Exhibition supported by Carlow County Council, Arts Act Grant Scheme.

1974.

In 1974 the IRA detonated two bombs in the heart of Birmingham City killing 22 people. Two silver boxes, manufactured in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, depict an image of the two bomb sites. The cabochons represent the names of each victim.


​​

Portrait of Thomas Wedgwood (cyanotype on wood)

After Josiah Wedgwood. Cyanotype on ceramic.