In conversation, Mary Waltham and Jacqueline Amies reflect on the significance of the exhibition theme, and the working methods employed within their current exhibition Ancient Woodland, A Celebration of Place.
During this free event, the artists will discuss the body of work on display in their exhibition that responds to local ancient woodland sites, alongside the importance of ancient woodland ecosystems now, and as part of our cultural history. An opportunity to learn more about the complex issues behind this subject matter, the event will provide insights into their working practices as artists, which builds on their wealth of creative and scientific knowledge in this area.
"What an inspiring celebration of place. I have learnt to look at a familiar landscape in an entirely new way"
Mary Waltham and Jackie Amies are the artists behind the Allen Gallery's current temporary exhibition, Ancient Woodland: A celebration of place which responds to our surrounding ancient woodlands of East Hampshire.
About the artists:
Mary Waltham's work reflects a powerful interest in the fragility of Ancient Woodland viewed through the eyes of both artist and scientist. She explores the unique character of ancient woodland that she visits regularly in a selection of 2D and 3D media, using a range of art disciplines including drawing, painting, and installation works. She often incorporates soil, bark, moss and wood directly into her work.
Jackie Amies has responded mainly to the unique environment of Ashford Hanger, through walking, collecting, drawing, writing and photographing the biodiverse rich species that are found there. Then returning to her studio to reflect on the findings within this National Nature Reserve, work is created to encourage conversations and engage the viewer in a curious and re-imagined artistic way, slowing down and observing to ‘celebrate a sense of place’ within this special and unique Ancient Woodland.
This event is part of the Allen Gallery's Community activity programme, generously supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The gallery is embarking on the second stage of an exciting new project to reimagine its historic ceramics collection, following an extensive pilot phase of activity and research. We know that the natural world means a lot to our visitors and hope that this event will provide inspiration and insights into nature as a subject for creative endeavour.
Photograph by Seamus Flanagan
