The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum Presents: Into Abstraction Exhibition

The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum has formed an exciting partnership with The Hepworth Wakefield and Gallery Pangolin, to provide Into Abstraction exhibition works that explores the evolution of abstract art amidst the sweeping social changes of the twentieth century.

A collage of images of The Wilson Art Gallery exhibitions.

This ambitious programme will feature exhibitions and interactive artworks, events and activities designed to engage and inspire visitors of all ages.

At the heart of this programme is the touring collection: Into Abstraction, Modern British Art and the Landscape, curated by The Hepworth Wakefield. It showcases masterpieces by celebrated artists such as Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, Duncan Grant, and Ben Nicholson offering an in-depth look at how these artists interpreted and influenced abstract art in response to their environments.

Sculpture from Gallery Pangolin, represents their associated foundry’s important role in producing artwork by some of the most influential artists of the 20th Century.  By constantly researching and developing both ancient and modern processes, renown artists from across the world flock to the Cotswolds to use their expertise and get an insight into the works cast in bronze, iron and precious metals.

Visitors to the exhibition can also explore bold and vibrant prints, along with striking canvases from The Wilson’s own collection, featuring works by notable artists like William Gear, Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, and Harold Cohen. These pieces exemplify the dynamic interplay between abstract art and the profound social and cultural shifts of the last century.

A new contemporary art commission from local textile artist Gemma Kay Waggett will invite audiences of all ages to engage with abstract art on a tactile and sensory level through material, colour and form, reflecting the local landscape with the focus on the archaeological site of Belas Knap, one of four Gloucestershire long barrows in the care of English Heritage and a fine example of the county’s Neolithic history.

Interactive Displays and Multimedia: Interactive displays and multimedia presentations provide deeper insights into the historical and cultural context of the artworks. Visitors can explore archival materials, artist interviews, and documentary footage to enhance their understanding of this pivotal era in British art.

Special Events and Programmes: Throughout the exhibition, The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum will host a series of special events, including artist and curator led talks, fine art workshops, family days, and an exciting schools workshop programme. 

These programs will offer visitors unique opportunities to engage with the themes and artists featured in ‘Into Abstraction’.

Opening Reception: The exhibition will open with a special reception on 3rd October 2024 commencing at 5.30pm. Guests will have the chance to preview the exhibition and meet some of the curators and artists involved in the project.

Exhibition Details:

Dates: 5th October – 2nd February
Admission: Free
Open Hours: 10.00am to 5.00 pm Tues – Sat.  10.00am to 4.00pm Sun

This exhibition forges meaningful connections between the unique art collections of The Wilson, Pangolin, and The Hepworth Wakefield. By intertwining Abstract Art’s reimagining of landscape, society and the human form, we aim to offer audiences a multifaceted understanding of these extraordinary collections.