Reimagining Treasures in Winchester
Greenbelter Ian Davies recently visited the Reimagining Treasures exhibit in Winchester. Here's what he thought...
One of the (many) great things about our venerable cathedrals is their continuing engagement with the here and now. The sight of modern art amongst the ancient stones is wonderful evidence of that continuum. On a visit to Winchester we wanted to renew our acquaintanceship with Anthony Gormley's striking piece Sound II in Winchester Cathedral. One of his signature cast forms, this contemplative figure stands alone in the vaulted crypt. On this occasion we were fortunate in that the crypt was flooded, giving the figure an even more poignant isolation in a sheeted refection of the crypt's dramatic ceiling.
In the process of getting to the crypt we could not avoid the stunning exhibition Reimagining Treasures, featured until 1 April. This is prompted by the 900th anniversary of the founding of Hyde Abbey. Using the starting point of artefacts from the Abbey itself, local artists have produced a range of contemporary art which sits well within the vast and diverse spaces in the Cathedral. The works range widely and wildly across media. The exquisite work of Alan Cracknell in the style of medieval illuminated manuscripts, and skateboarding angels delicately engraved on glass by Tracey Sheppard show contemporary twists on enduring themes. Ella Clocksin's piece is a video presentation behind the locked gates of a chantry chapel - Leavings is an eerie mesmeric series of digital stills shown on a loop.
Donna Vokes' Bells 2009/2010 are silent, as the bells of the Monastery are silent, but also because they are crafted in knitted twine. By contrast Alex Hoare's Font comes alive - the beautiful glass bowl is underlit and glows, and as one approaches it, glorious singing is triggered.
New metal figures appear in ancient niches; mighty paintings are hung on the venerable walls; ethereal figures hide round a column; a winged sculpture flies high above; a mobile with a myriad of paper birds carrying messages shimmers in the air movement; an earthenware triptych sits safe. Some of the art grabs out at you, other pieces require you to search them out.
Encapsulating the exhibition is a pair of exhibits by Kate Harding. Taking communion as her theme, she requires us to enter into a confessional like chamber to view a ghostly golden Chalice produced by camera obscura on the matt black wall of this mysterious cabinet. Her Host, however, is unavoidable; sized at 3 metres by 3.5 metres this huge board is covered with white bread. Each slice, nailed in place, has been coloured. Stand back to see the image of a tree.
Contemporary art of all forms and natures in a venerable setting. Inspired by history but speaking to us now, making it easy to listen.
Reimagining Treasures is on at Winchester Cathedral until 26 March (normal Cathedral admission charges apply), and at City Space at the Discovery Centre and at The Link Gallery, University of Winchester until 18 April. More information from the Hyde900 website.
