The beauty of useful objects goes on show
AFTER curating the Downlands Art Exhibition for 13 years, Evan Hollis was keen to put a little more of himself into the show.
And after seeing beautiful, rare motorcycles on display in New York City’s iconic Guggenheim Museum, he felt pretty confident about getting away with it himself.
The art of design was a key theme in putting this year’s show together and Mr Hollis said it was all about showing the beauty of useful objects and the importance of art in everyday life.
“This year I’ve brought the art of design as a major element; a good facet of this show,” Mr Hollis said.
“We’ve been running for 31 years I think now, and as curator for the past 13 I’m trying to bring a personal touch to the whole show.
“By saying that I mean I want people to leave this show with more of an appreciation about how much art is actually in their lives already.
“You don’t just have to come to the show and see a
fabulous painting on a wall. “Art is more than that. “There are so many things we use daily that have a design content heavily influenced by artists.”
So in addition to the usual incredible array of beautiful paintings and sculptures, there would be everything from genuine 600-700-year-old samurai swords, Napoleonic horse helmets and even a one-off, hand-built motorcycle.
Mr Hollis said the show was the perfect destination for families celebrating Father’s Day, with a barbecue to add to the exciting art of war and motorcycle displays.
For a closer look at this year’s offering, visit downlandsart.com.