This display is a ‘conversation’ between the familiar work of the renowned sculptor Emma Rodgers and pieces by Johnny Vegas, whose work we are delighted to introduce here for the first time. Flight is a common theme for both artists and this show will feature two-dimensional work, bronze, clay and 3D printing.
This show is in partnership with the Walker Art Gallery, which will feature new displays of work by Emma and Johnny curated by Nicola Scott, Decorative Arts Senior Curator.
“Confrontation, energy, curiosity, essence of a moment and interaction are the main elements that initially draw me to a new subject and are indicative of the very nature of the animals I have depicted.
When approaching a new body of work I produce a large amount of visual research. Sketching is particularly important as it provides me with a greater understanding of the form. I aim to interpret these drawn qualities into clay and remove the work from pure representation. A jagged line in ink is re-interpreted as a torn clay edge; an arc of soft pencil becomes a soft fold. The energy of the animal and the tautness of the pose are conveyed by a distortion in the medium.”
– Emma Rodgers
“Currently, flight, faith, fear of failure and broken/tested faith, are the subjects most fluent in my work. Emotional evolution and how best I can express that in 2D or 3D forms. A thought process, be it linked to hope or fear, captured in time. I’ve a head full of butterflies and all of them designed with unique intentions of distraction from the task at hand. When I think to exhibit I’m compelled to try and recreate in clay or oil what I’ve caught in my net that day… before it is once more set free to distract me from the hurried and sometimes ill constructed expectations of normality.”
– Johnny Vegas
Join the the team, Emma and Johnny for a special opening event on Thursday 2 May 2024, from 5.30pm – 7pm. Refreshments will be served and Friends of the Bdc will receive a 10% discount on all purchases during the evening.
A curated selection of work will be available through our online shop.