On show from 18th January until 30th March at the Harley Foundation, ‘People’s Art’ exhibits the work of five contemporary artists – Ingrid Murphy, Zac Weinberg, Liaqat Rasul, Julia Griffith Jones, and Francisco Onumah.
Each artist has created new work in response to historic pieces of folk art made by unnamed artists. These new artworks will be displayed alongside the object that inspired it: from wine glasses to a traditional Welsh quilt, to Punch and Judy doorstops.
The exhibition encourages visitors to question what defines ‘art’ versus ‘craft’ and how we assign value to each.
“People’s Art is a small part in the age-old art versus craft debate,” said Lisa Gee, Director of the Harley Foundation. “But whether we label it ‘art’ or ‘craft’, making is all around us and always has been. We want visitors to think about the unknown makers of yesterday, today and tomorrow by getting creative in our Making Studio. Follow the lead of our contemporary artists and our unknown artists, and join centuries of quiet creativity.”
The Making Studio will be running daily alongside the exhibition. Bursting with supplies, it’s the perfect place for families to get creative and reflect on the themes of the exhibition.
On Saturdays, visitors will be joined by one of the Harley’s team, who will be lending a hand and showing you some new skills and techniques for free. The activities will range from crafting with clay to learning how to emboss metal – see the full schedule on the Harley Foundation website.
Featured artists and works
Ingrid Murphy used AI and opensource digital databases to create modern interpretations of classic ceramic Wally Dogs, blending traditional ceramic skills with digital techniques.
Zac Weinberg took inspiration from Victorian dessert wine glasses to create two modern glass pieces exploring Victorian customs – from toasting to duelling.
Liaqat Rasul responded to Punch and Judy cast-iron doorstops, creating an artwork focused on domestic violence awareness.
Julia Griffith Jones took inspiration from a 19th-century Welsh quilt, transforming textile motifs into metal.
Francisco Onumah reinterpreted a large 1900s metal kettle which was used as a shop sign. His response is made from patinated copper and references the shadows cast by the original sign.
People’s Art is a National Glass Centre touring exhibition with support from Arts Council England.
The Harley Foundation is on the Welbeck estate, on the A60 south of Worksop. It is open Tuesday to Sunday; for more information and for opening times visit www.harleyfoundation.org.uk.