Recently opening in East Street Arts’ main studio, “Untitled Exhibition #3” is the next in a collaboration of products between the group and the “Untitled” publication, which was set up in preparation for British Art Show 8. This exhibition latches on to the topic of “hidden” artists: citizens of Leeds who are not artists as their main profession, who have never publicly exhibited or have not formally studied art. The result of this theme is an inspiring display of creativity and determination by those intent on pursuing their passions despite the obstacles that life has thrust upon them. A highlight is the variety of vastly different styles present, adding a uniqueness to each section and helping to differentiate the artists’ work from each other.
Prominent throughout the exhibition is bank worker Christopher High, whose work showcases a unique genre-defying style, the imaginative subject of psychological dynamics within relationships. Full of symbolism and mystery, his acrylic paintings (which include the brilliant “Was it Suicide?”) show surrealistic emotional complexity as well as sheer artistic skill. Also on display is Liz Tolan, whose works of technicolour impressionism stand on the crossroads between order and chaos, and manage to feel fresh.
Acting in perfect dichotomy to this is Jon O’Connell’s work, examining the dark grittiness in urban life through a lens of realism to portray the shadowy alleys and corroded buildings of an unseen Leeds. His painting “Lulu the Bulldog” is particularly impressive. Also displaying is artist of Spanish heritage Quentin Kean, whose distinctive collages set him apart from the more traditional artists in the exhibition – even though Kean hasn’t studied Art formally. A former newsroom worker, he uses images from old National Geographic magazines to create enigmatic and thought-provoking collages such as “Over the Kiosk”.
Photographer and IT specialist Zubeir Tai completes the line-up of artists in “Untitled 3#”. Tai’s compilation “Humans of Leeds” collects a selection of portraits taken of the city’s people as they follow their daily routines, similar to the popular “Humans of New York” series. The result is a personal homage to the people of the city, as well as the diversity of culture, style and personality within it.
“Untitled” is a surprising exhibition, in that it demonstrates the hidden talent of those around us, who have been left unnoticed. All the pieces presented are to a high degree of prestige, while retaining a personal and community-centred feel; making the exhibition a recommended visit. While it detracts very little from the overall exhibition, the only fault here is that the show space allocated to “Untitled” is quite small, and could be expanded in order to further display Leeds’s hidden talents.
Tim Wilson
Image: Christopher High