Excavating Art

Excavating Art is an exhibition showcasing the work of the Quay Crafts community. The exhibition has been curated by Kingston University's Museum and Gallery Studies students and will run until the 12th March - So hurry up and give it a visit!!

The Quay Crafts community is made up of a range of artists that hope to stretch the boundaries of contemporary art. The work on display includes a range of mixed medium art inspired by the groups collaboration with the Damerham Archaeology Project in the summer of 2013 - led by Professor Helen Wickstead of Kingston University. The Damerham Archaeology Project used geophysical surveying and field walking to find out more about Damerham's past. The show is both intriguing and exciting. The use of Kingston University for the site of the exhibition furthers the University's link with The Damerham Archaeology Project and creates a more friendly and casual tone to the display.

Upon arrival guests were welcomed to a cocktail called 'The Excavator', devilishly delicious - a perfect way to start the night! Throughout the evening students helped to maintain a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, providing visitors with information about the art and introducing them to the artists when asked.

There was a great range of work displayed, however, some of my favourite pieces included:

Damerham Cloth by Chris Lines
This piece reminded me of the work of Sigmar Polke, using aerial photography from the Damerham dig to display the significance of 'crop circles'  

DAP 13 by Mary Flynn
Here, a grid unit is used to demonstrate the location of each image during the excavation

Kingston University students provide visitors with a basic insight into the relationship between art and archaeology. If you're an archaeology or art enthusiast then Excavating Art is the place to be! 

 Don't forget to leave a comment on your way out! The students put together a mock grid unit - a playful way to keep the exhibition focussed on archaeology and to receive feedback.