Art and design exhibition brings lecturers' work to the public

The Place, Space, Action exhibition appeared in Huddersfield’s Market Gallery

TWO exhibitions that featured work from the University of Huddersfield’s School of Art, Design and Architecture have transformed vacant stalls in Huddersfield’s Queensgate Market.  Now, because of its popularity amongst the public and market traders, there will be more installations appearing in the near future for audiences to enjoy.    

Dr Rowan Bailey and Dr Jill Townsley from the University’s Department of Art and Communication curated the exhibition Place, Space, Action in Huddersfield’s Market Gallery as part of a project called Temporary Contemporary.  

The pieces on display presented stories, experiences and imaginary interactions with the themes ‘place’, ‘space’ and ‘action’.

The second exhibition, curated by the Head of Architecture and 3D Design Professor Nic Clear, displayed current practice-based research and was entitled Market Hardware, which was taken from the name, still displayed, that used to occupy the stall. 

The Temporary Contemporary initiative is a broad partnership between the University’s School of Art, Design and Architecture, Kirklees Council and Queensgate Market and was established by Kirklees Council’s Creative Communities Operational Manager, Kath Davies, the University’s Head of Art and Communication Professor Donal Fitzpatrick and Markets Manager of Kirklees Markets, Chris Cotton.

The initiative is ongoing and focuses on developing creative spaces throughout Huddersfield town.  The two University exhibitions in Queensgate Market were a part of the broader project.

On display were works of art and design from a broad range of media including sculptures, paintings, illustrations, photography and video work.

“It is important to us that we share what we do at the University with members of the public,” says Dr Bailey.  “The display of work in the town centre attracted lots of different audiences and staff spent time at the Market Gallery invigilating the space and enjoying conversations with its visitors.”  

Dr Bailey also explained how the project was a great opportunity for staff from the University to have their work featured alongside one another and how it cultivated shared research interests.  More exhibitions are planned from June onwards.

Market trader Howard Fanning from Queensgate Ironmongers, based in the Market, said: “This partnership is an innovative approach which should be enjoyed by many people and one which will be of great benefit to the town centre, the public, traders in the market and the students alike.”