Experimental contemporary arts facilitator UNIT is to present an exhibition, Classic Man, by emerging artist Steven Wilson. In Classic Man, Wilson presents a collection of works which use sound, video and sculpture to raise questions of what people are really looking for in material objects of desire. If not the objects themselves, then what do they represent to their seekers?
Using such techniques as pitching and stretching audio and recutting video clips sourced from popular culture and advertising, Wilson creates audio-visual works that deconstruct the symbols and aesthetics of capitalism. He uses this to suggest the deeper human longings and desires that lie behind what, on the surface, might appear as the apotheosis of an imagined celebrity lifestyle and of purely material aspirations.
The exhibition also showcases works in which Wilson explores his interest in the aesthetic of 90s dance label Positiva Records and in the parallels between the label’s visual brand identity and the work of American artist John McCracken.
Classic Man is the first show to receive the support of PLATFORM, a new initiative which has been developed by UNIT to support emerging artists based in Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde, as they explore and develop their practice, and to catapult them into the next stage of their careers.
UNIT director Sophie Fuce said: “Emergent contemporary artists who don’t have a significant record of accomplishment are invited to apply to PLATFORM’s programme. Selected artists will receive a small bursary to make a new body of work and will benefit from having a mentor to support them as they develop their ideas.”
Artists interested in applying to take part in PLATFORM can contact UNIT by emailing [email protected] or by calling 07939 918 573. The show opens with a preview this Friday (27 May) from 6-8pm on the second floor of Abingdon Studios and will run until 10 June. Viewings of Classic Man are by appointment only. For more information visit unitprojects.org
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