For Great unveiled
The exhibition was inspired by The Blazing World, a pioneering work of science fiction written by Margaret Cavendish, Duchess of Newcastle, published in 1668 and imagining a fantasy world reached via a gateway at the North Pole.
Another exhibition, To the Moon and Back, boasting British astronaut Helen Sharman’s spacesuit, will feature objects shedding light on the frontiers explored by adventurous northerners.
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art will offer a new exhibition by recent Turner Prize winner Lubaina Himid, based in Preston, another by Newcastle-born and Turner Prize-nominated Michael Dean and “an enormous charm bracelet”, the work of conceptual artist Ryan Gander, in Baltic Square.
And while most of these attractions are free, there is also a list of associate attractions, some of which will have an admission charge.
Robots – Then and Now, at the Life Science Centre, will feature the Kodomoroid, a chatty android from Japan.
Of her soundtrack, Sunderland-born Ms Laverne said: “It’s a great opportunity to showcase the vast array of talent the North of England produces, across a breadth of styles and genres. “I’m proud to be representing a series of gigs that highlight the wealth of talent the North has to offer.” Sir Gary Verity, chairman of the Great Exhibition, said: “As well as being a showcase for some of the best creative and inspiring talent from the north of England, our diverse programme tells a pioneering story and one that will help change the way the world views the North. “Whether you have a love of arts and design, cutting edge culture, history and innovation, inspired technology or vibrant street performance, there is something in this programme to intrigue and excite those of all ages and from all backgrounds.” Matt Hancock, secretary of state for digital, culture, media and sport, said: “The North is a hotbed of creativity, with a proud history of innovators, businesses and artists that have shaped how we live today. “Not only will the Exhibition showcase this incredible diversity, it will also boost tourism and deliver growth to the region. “It will celebrate what makes the North such a fantastic place to live, visit and invest in.” Check www.getnorth2018.com for more on the Great Exhibition of the North programme.