Art / motherhood
The lived experience of motherhood is explored through a major touring exhibition at Arnolfini
Historically depicted in art as the symbolic Madonna and Child, there is nevertheless a gap in representation – and celebration – of ‘the artist mother’ as a culturally significant figure within society.
Arriving at Arnolfini on March 9, Hayward Gallery Touring’s new major group exhibition seeks to readdress the lived experience of motherhood through an artistic lens.
Curated over several years by Hettie Judah, Acts of Creation: On Art and Motherhood will feature over 100 pieces from over 60 modern and contemporary artists working in painting, photography, sculpture, sound and film.
is needed now More than ever
“The exhibition will address diverse experiences of motherhood across three themes,” indicate the notes to the collection: “Creation, which looks at conception, pregnancy, birth and nursing; Maintenance which explores motherhood and caregiving in the day-to-day; and Loss, which touches on miscarriage and involuntary childlessness, as well as reproductive rights.”
Anna Grevenitis, Regard series (2015 -) – photo: © Anna Grevenitis
Caroline Walker, Bottles and Pumps, 2022 – photo: courtesy the artist
Artists featured include Janine Antoni, Tracey Emin, VALIE EXPORT, Barbara Hepworth, Claudette Johnson, Anna Grevenitis, Hermione Wiltshire, Paula Rego, Jai Chuhan, Christine Voge and Del LaGrace Volcano.
Gemma Brace is head of exhibitions at Arnolfini. “We are excited to be working with Hettie and the team at Hayward Gallery Touring on such a timely exhibition addressing themes that have held growing importance to our programme and audiences over the last three years,” she says; “from exhibitions with Jo Spence, Chantal Joffe, Polly Braden and Paula Rego to the growing diversity of the community partners we work with.
Claudette Johnson, Afterbirth (1990) – photo: © Claudette Johnson
Hermione Wiltshire, Nicola Preparing for Birth, 2008 – photo: courtesy the artist
“With its focus upon lived experiences we hope in turn it will open up new conversations that resonate for the future.”
The exhibition will be accompanied by a programme of public events (details to be announced) and a book published by Thames & Hudson.
Paula Rego Untitled 2, 1999 – photo: courtesy Cristea Roberts Gallery
VALIE EXPORT, Die Geburtenmadonna, 1976 – photo: © VALIE EXPORT, Bildrecht, Wien 2023
Acts of Creation: On Art and Motherhood is at Arnolfini from March 9-June 2 (Tuesday-Sunday, 11am-6pm). The exhibition is free and will be bookable in advance. More information is available at www.arnolfini.org.uk.
Main photo: Janine Antoni, 2038 (2000). © Janine Antoni
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