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There are three cracking exhibitions happening in Nottingham right now, and since we’re not yet past the chilly weather this is a great time to while away the hours soaking up some art in one of Nottingham's top galleries.
Coincidentally, each exhibition explores the effects of movement, politics and conflict on cultures ranging from Korea, the Middle East and right back to Britain in the 8th century AD.
Check out our reviews below and take yourself out before they close!
From Ear to Ear to Eye | Exhibition at Nottingham Contemporary | Until 4th March 2018
When the world seems in a current state of turmoil and the news and social media are overwhelming, it’s no wonder that sometimes we just want to switch off. It can be hard to see past the news reports and remember that behind all conflicts there are people just like us, trying get on peacefully while their homelands become dangerous, or even disappear completely.
The latest exhibition at Nottingham Contemporary takes us to the Middle East, covering the conflicts, corruption, and crises in countries such as Lebanon, Egypt, Israel, and Palestine. But rather than a history lesson or aloof news report, these are the stories of real people. Using a fantastically diverse array of mediums, including sculpture, film, photography, installation, music and painting, 18 artists bring their experiences, and those of their people, to the forefront.
A clip of an Egyptian songstress performing in Parisian music hall is juxtaposed with a captivating film exploring Kurdish and Yemenite music. Colossal abstract drawings sit with vintage photography of Arab musicians. Faceless black and white portraits contrast with attractive ceramics reminiscent of body parts.
You might not learn a complete political background to the conflicts depicted, but you will certainly have your curiosity about these distant places aroused. Some of the works are heartbreaking, others visually stunning, but each piece is unique, and as a collection the story told is completely compelling. In a world that is both cracked and connected, From Ear to Ear to Eye is here to remind us that sometimes we must look past the politics and search for the human stories instead.
Viking - Rediscover The Legend | Exhibition at Nottingham Lakeside Arts | Until Sunday 4th March 2018
Before pirates came along and stole their thunder, Vikings were the original buccaneers - finding adventure on the seven seas and mixing it up in distant soil. The cultural landscape of the British Isles was heavily transformed when these Nordic legions parked up their dragon ships on our shores, bringing with them new customs, fashion, and language.
Rediscover the Legend at Nottingham Lakeside Arts will interest adults and children alike, and part of its charm is the combination of playful, interactive exhibits along with more detailed, fascinating information. Dress up in traditional Scandinavian clothing and spell your name in runes, check out hordes of silver jewellery, tools and carvings, and take in a wealth of fascinating facts. This is a great day out, so catch it soon before it heads off to new lands!
The Real DMZ | Exhibition at New Art Exchange | Until 15th April
It has been 63 years since Korea divided into north and south, and despite the wonders of technology bringing the planet closer together, for most people North Korea remains a place shrouded in mystery. Continuing their commitment to celebrating cultural diversity, New Art Exchange present works by eight South Korean artists, representing various aspects of this problematic pollical situation bewteen north and south. The life in North Korea is shown through the eyes of its citizens - soldiers in training faced with overwhelming political uncertainty and life in a constant threat of war breaking out with the south, America, and/or the rest of the world. DMZ is both an uncertainty – life in constant fear of war, and a growing part of national identity – something that people can’t image their life without, a dangerous, mysterious and magical place.
This blog was written by Sophie Gargett, Marketing Assistant at Visit Nottinghamshire
Related
Nottingham Contemporary is one of the largest contemporary art galleries in the UK, presenting free exhibitions, special events, and family activities.
New Art Exchange is the largest art centre in the UK dedicated to culturally diverse arts. Entry to exhibitions and events is FREE.
Nottingham Lakeside Arts is The University of Nottingham's unique public arts centre and museum presenting an eclectic programme of music, dance, theatre, visual art, special collections and family events all year round.
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