Winter 2024-25: ‘Abstract Vernacular’, London

‘Argumentative Map – High’, 2024. Steel, Jesmonite, concrete.
Photo: Peter Griffiths

Abstract Vernacular – Continuing Conversations
Sugar House Island 1 
6 Sugar House Lane 
London E15 2QS 

12 December 2024 – 18 January 2025

I am collaborating with fellow members of Talking Sculpture Making (TSM) Alexandra Harley and Sheila Vollmer to curate this exhibition of abstract sculpture and painting by nine multi-generational women and non-binary contemporary artists from London, the North and Ireland, hosted by HYPHA STUDIOS.

Many contemporary artists make works that are abstract, yet they do not define them as such. TSM want to reclaim the word and open up conversations about how abstract sculpture and painting speaks to many through their visual languages which, through use of material and space refers indirectly to the complex world we live in. Visual concepts of form, spatial relationships, presentation and visual independence will become apparent across the works in the show, fuelling discussions that explore and dissect the language surrounding the artists’ respective practices and how they each engage with ideas. 

TSM has an established exhibition profile exploring contemporary abstract sculpture, generating dialogue and supporting multi-generational women’s practices in the genre.

For this show, we have invited sculptors Katrina Cowling, Charlotte Cullen and Beatrice Galletley and, for the first time, painters Jackie Askew, Day Bowman and Ellen Ransom to show with us. 

There will be a public discussion in January, chaired by eminent curator and writer Natalie Rudd, offering an exchange of ideas around the languages of abstract art and the evolving nature of women’s art practices, including the parallels between abstract painting and sculpture.

Private View – Thursday 12 December 2024, 6-9pm 
Exhibition open Thursday – Saturday, 12-6pm 
(Closed 22 – 29 December). 

Free tour of exhibition by the artists on Sunday 15th December 2024, 2-4pm. Everyone welcome. 

Free public discussion with the artists, chaired by Natalie Rudd will take place on Saturday 18th January 2025, 2-5pm. Everyone welcome.