EXHIBITION PREFACE

The creation and appreciation of art are subjective. While we advocate for inclusivity in art, society tends to equate sophistication with cultural elitism. Both artists and audiences, as humans, naturally long for recognition and affirmation. In many discussions, we often place artistic integrity and popularity on opposite ends of the scale, expecting artists to constantly create works that are both profound and innovative. Audiences face similar pressures. In "Playing to the Gallery," Grayson Perry notes that the obscure language in gallery descriptions often leaves audiences feeling confused and intimidated. Instead of creating and appreciating art, we often spend more time debating its value and feeling insecure, with expectations about taste creating barriers to expression and experience.

This year's exhibition theme playground invites artists and audiences to shed the constraints of external expectations and to create and experience art freely. This is not about abandoning exploration and critical reflection, but rather encouraging the discovery of the simple and genuine joy in creating and appreciating art.

LOCATION

Bargehouse, OXO Tower Wharf, Barge House St, London SE1 9PH

OPENING HOURS

3 - 6 October 2024

11:00 - 18:00

Open Daily, Free Admission

PRIVATE VIEW

3 October 18:00 - 21:00

Free Admission, RSVP, Walk-ins Welcome

Booking Available by 200:00 16 September, RSVP HERE