Christmas Soiree at the Slaughterhouse by Alex Corina and Paraphernalia Exhibition of Ian Taylor.
Written by Gaynor Evelyn Sweeney, 23 December 2006.
Alex Corina had kindly invited Transvoyeur artists and many others from the art community in Liverpool and the Northwest of England to attend a Christmas soiree at the Slaughterhouse Gallery in Garston Village (Liverpool, England) on Friday 22 December 2006. An array of artists, curators, and different professionals turned up and a pleasant and amicable was had by everyone.
It was also the last opportunity to view the unique and thought provoking art of Ian Taylor in the ‘Paraphernalia’ Exhibition. The collection was a series of sculptures and framed work, but with a three dimensional content. Each piece was derived from ‘found objects’, but so cleverly done, you knew what each piece was sourced from, but the reconstruction into these amazing art objects played with ones mind and shared in the vivid and surreal imagination of the artist.
Alex Corina, who is a strong activist in contemporary arts and culture, curated the exhibition. His drive and passion currently lies with his many projects and initiatives managed in the Garston district already. However, his vision has many more plans in store and he is historically and culturally changing the face of Garston with his immense contributions made to this area.
There was the infamous ‘Camel’ too, which was recently vandalised, but since repaired. This was unveiled in a switching on ceremony and party at the Slaughterhouse on Friday 17 November. A 25 feet neon light formed into the shape of a camel. This was researched and produced by the international artist, Ron Haseldon, who invited pupils to make drawings on the subject of an animal. One was chosen and transformed into a large scale, freestanding neon light. This project was originally one for the Liverpool Biennial in association with the Garston Cultural Village. It will be interesting to see what other strange and wonderful art is presented in Garston Village. I recommend a journey on the 82 Bus to St Mary’s Road (Garston Village). It is worth a visit to view and experience upcoming events there to be announced in 2007, as each one has been diverse and fascinating.
It was an enjoyable evening with good art and a chance to catch up with many before the Christmas season and since the hype and mania of the Biennial. Time to reflect now and plan for 2007 for everyone.
Information on future events at the Slaughterhouse and Garston Cultural Village can be viewed at: www.culturalvillage.co.uk or www.alexcorina.com