Unearthed, a new installation by Amy Williams
27 January – 4 June 2023
Unearthed is a vibrant installation of oversized paper wildflowers representing ten extraordinary women by Kendal-based visual artist Amy Williams.
Produced with local community groups over a six-month period, the installation unearths hidden or lesser-known stories of women from Cumbrian history, who through their skill, dedication and compassion brought about positive social change.
Bold and theatrical, the installation takes visual inspiration from the flora and fauna found in Blackwell’s historic Arts & Crafts interiors, creating a larger than life indoor botanic garden.
The intricate wildflower sculptures pay homage to each of the women chosen by Williams. From activist Winifred Langton (1909-2003) who tirelessly campaigned for social justice, to Arts & Crafts designer Annie Garnett (1864-1942), whose Windermere-based weaving workshop, The Spinnery, sought to create well paid jobs for the region’s working class. The women remembered in this space lived very different lives, in different eras, but are united by the common thread of wanting to make a difference to their world.
The installation explores the symbolism of flowers as an act of remembrance and as representations of femininity, resilience and resistance.
Amy Williams, “For me it feels important to be able to shine a light on these extraordinary women and to commemorate their lives through this visual medium. I’m pleased we’ve been able to coordinate the exhibition to run across Women’s History Month, especially given this year’s theme of ‘Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.’ I love the setting of Blackwell and am looking forward to transforming the space into a delightful wonderland. I’m grateful to Naomi Gariff, the curator, for giving me so much creative freedom to fulfil this vision. It’s a special thing as an artist to be given this opportunity.”
As part of the installation, Willams has worked with community groups across South Lakeland to create a ‘community garden’ of smaller paper flowers. Participants were encouraged to share stories and to create a flower sculpture that pays tribute to an extraordinary Cumbrian of their choice. There will be the chance to try your hand at making your own, in a series of workshops held at Blackwell. Taking place on 23 February, 4 March, 19 March and 15 April the sessions are free with entry, but booking is required. The flowers created by participants will be added to a display which will grow through the course of the exhibition. The exhibition is open to the public from 27 January until 4 June 2023.
“We’re delighted to be kicking off our 2023 programme at Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house with an exhibition showcasing the work of local artist Amy Williams. Created with community groups across South Lakeland, Unearthed uncovers stories of extraordinary women from Cumbria’s past using paper, a medium that has deep connections to the county.
The project is kindly supported by James Cropper, who have been producing world-class paper from their mill in Kendal since 1845. It has also been generously supported by the Westmorland Arts Trust Fund via Cumbria Community Fund, whose support has enabled Williams to engage more deeply and widely with the community.
The commission is part of Blackwell’s New Year New Make series, bringing craftspeople together with communities to create new work that encourages dialogue and new ways of thinking. Throughout the making process, Unearthed has encouraged community conversation around acts of collective remembrance, prompting discussions around whose stories are remembered, and whose are often forgotten.” – Naomi Gariff, Programme Curator, Lakeland Arts.
“We are delighted to support Blackwell and local artist, Amy Williams, as they bring the stories of ten remarkable Cumbrian women to life with care and creativity. In Amy’s hands, our collection of Vanguard papers are transformed from a humble sheet of paper into a visual oasis of sculptural design. An affirming celebration of societal change, art and craft.” Julie Tomlinson, Marketing Communications Manager, James Cropper
Listings information:
Amy Williams | Unearthed
27 January – 4 June 2023
Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3JT
Full price standard admission: £9*
*Concessions available, annual pass holders and Lakeland Arts Members go free
> Plan your visit https://lakelandarts.org.uk/unearthed-by-amy-williams/
Paper Sculpture Workshop with Amy Williams
1 – 3pm | 23 February, 4 March, 19 March and 15 April 2023
Suitable for ages 16+ years
Learn the art of paper sculpture and delve into the history of extraordinary Cumbrian women in this hands-on workshop with visual artist Amy Williams.
Free with admission ticket or valid annual pass to Blackwell. Free for members
> Book your place here https://tickets.lakelandarts.org.uk/WebStore/landingPage?cg=Products&c=DayTickets
