Depictions of ‘The North’

Join OCA tutor Derek Trillo on the 23 June to visit an exhibition depicting very different representations of ‘The North’ in Manchester’s Central Library: ‘from incisive studio portraiture to grand rural vistas to quiet urban observations’. What they have in common is that they avoid the usual northern clichés, ranging from highly personal work to those with strong connections to people. There is an excellent appraisal of the exhibiting artists here.
Derek was lucky enough to see curator and artists’ presentations at the library, when Simon Bowcock explained the selection criteria for inclusion in the show and the unusual ethos of HOBO photography (curator Greg Hobson and writer Simon Bowcock). Artists Phoebe Kiely (who will have a monograph published by Michael Mack in June) and Matthew Murray both gave illuminating insights into their work, which Derek will review at the visit.
We can then discuss the exhibition and wider topics – how can identity be communicated visually, the role of the curator and the selection of images – over lunch across the road at Manchester Art Gallery’s café. Later there will be two choices:
Option 1 is to return to the library for a free curator tour at 3pm with Greg Hobson. Greg was formerly curator at the National Media Museum and Media Space for over 30 years.
Option 2 is to tour two of Manchester Art Gallery’s exhibitions with Derek.
The first retrospective of Sonia Boyce’s multi-disciplinary artworks includes film, fashion, photography, wallpapers and installations. All of these explore Boyce’s identity as a Black British artist.
The second is the fascinating and inventive fusion of ceramics and sculpture by Kate Haywood.
To reserve your place please email enquiries@oca.ac.uk or alternatively to request a place on a study visit please click here and complete the form. Please indicate which option you would prefer as early booking is required for the talk.