For this exciting and ambitious new exhibition, Liverpool based artist and sculptor, Philip Garrett has created an extensive body of new work over the last few months, displayed alongside a selection of his earlier pieces.
Through drawing and sculpture, he has been exploring the many faces of Knowsley, including Stan, Caretaker of St Laurence’s Catholic Primary, Kirkby. The public have suggested many of his subjects and Philip has also chosen local figures to commemorate and celebrate.
This exhibition and project name came from the artist’s interest in the role of municipal galleries, especially those in areas of economic challenges and declining industries. Unique to this show, Philip has fostered new creative twinnings between Knowsley and other regional art venues, producing commissioned work to remember a local figure that has had a strong, positive impact on their local community. From this generous creative gesture, celebrating local communities and fostering new partnerships, it serves to demonstrate how our exhibition and actions come ‘From Kirkby with Love’.
As part of his journey and research across the borough, he has worked with multiple schools, in both the pursuit of subjects to depict and also to teach drawing and sculpture to our next generation of artists. A selection of this work produced by Knowsley school pupils features in the show, adding another dimension to the display and providing a wonderful opportunity for the aspiring artists to see their work displayed professionally. Schools can book free self-led visits to the exhibition, or even special £100 workshops led by Philip himself!
Philip will be in residence on a range of dates throughout the duration of the exhibition as he continues his work; as well as being presented in a style reminiscent of an artist’s studio, the gallery space will also function as one. If you are interested in seeing Philip at work and perhaps even sitting for him, contact us for more information – details as above.
—
From Kirkby with Love
Kirkby Gallery, 3 February – 3 April 2020