Flockage - a message from Kirsten Hardie

Flockage: the flock phenomenon - an exhibition that explores the unique
qualities of flock in art, design and culture at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery
& Museum, Bournemouth Dorset UK.

Dates: 15 Jan - 1 June 2008. Free admission
Supported by the Arts Council & The Textile Society’s Museum, Archive /Repository Award 2007.

As a ubiquitous material that enjoys enduring popularity, flock is literally part of the fabric of our social, cultural and economic history. Flockage: the flock phenomenon is a unique exhibition that aims to explore flock’s fascinating forms and functions. This unique exhibition showcases flock’s use and status within design through a rich and colourful array of historical and contemporary examples and perspectives brought together for the first time.

The exhibition presents a lively consideration of the qualities of flock - how the feel and look of flock is used to maximise the appeal and use of objects; from kitsch ornaments to interior design. The exhibition creates a dynamic, colourful and sensory experience.

The exhibition showcases a wide range of exhibits on loan from collections and companies. Exhibits from key design companies and manufacturers include, as examples, the work of Cole and Son (Wallpaper) Ltd, The Ashley Wilde Group, English Eccentrics, Johnny Egg, Bonar Floors, Anglepoise, Thomas and Vines Limited and Qualplast Limited. The exhibition presents a fascinating array of cross-discipline flock examples and will showcase work from numerous international designers and companies.

wallpaper from Cole and Son

Flockage presents flock work by key artists and designers including; Elaine Igoe, Research Student, RCA; Zoe Robertson, jeweller, Girli Concrete and Natasha Lewer - whose flocked ceramic sculptures are designed specifically for visitors with visual impairment to enjoy. Newly commissioned flock work is also exhibited.

Mutations 2 - ceramic sculptures

Natasha Lewer

The exhibition involves The European Flock Association and brings together a host of over 30 companies and individuals that make and create items with flock. The venue for the exhibition is the prestigious and luxurious Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, Bournemouth - a truly sumptuous setting on the south coast of England.http://russell-cotes.bournemouth.gov.uk/hoshis.htm.

The symposium - Flockage: the flock phenomenon will be held at Hotel Miramar, Bournemouth on the 7th February 2008 to complement the exhibition. It will explore further key aspects of flock through a range of dynamic keynote speakers. Symposium delegate rate: £55.00 (concessionary rate: £35.00 = Full Time student / Member of the Textile Society)

The exhibition is co-curated by Pam Langdown and Kirsten Hardie, of the Flock Friendly Group, in partnership with the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum.

NOTES TO EDITORS

For further information on Flockage: the flock phenomenon – the exhibition & symposium please contact:
Kirsten Hardie kirsten@missbetty.co.uk or Pam Langdown flockage@googlemail.com
Telephone: 01202 314600

For press enquiries regarding the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum please contact Kerry Curtis:
+44 (0)1202 451823
Kerry.Curtis@Bournemouth.gov.uk.

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Russell-Cotes Road
East Cliff
Bournemouth BH1 3AA
UK

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum in Bournemouth is a dramatic experience for many visitors. The exuberance and variety of styles found within the building creates a unique atmosphere that is a mixture of both private house and public museum. Created by two dedicated collectors, the Russell-Cotes is a museum of national importance. The galleries display a regularly changing programme of significant art. Famous permanent artworks include Dante Gabriel Charles Rossetti’s Venus Verticordia (oil on canvas (1864-68)) which has toured the world as one of the UK’s most acclaimed works of art.

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays (closed Christmas Day and Good Friday), from 10.00am – 5.00pm T. +44 (0)1202 451 858; E. r-c.enquiries@bournemouth.gov.uk. The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is a registered charity (no. 306288) and is administered by Bournemouth Borough Council.


Contact: Kirsten Hardie / Pam Langdown mailto:kirsten@misbetty.co.uk and/or flockage@googlemail.com

2 photos provided by Kirsten Hardie