‘Pillow Book’ by Anna Hedman de Garza/ ‘Tools for Actions’ by Linda Brothwell
All is not as it seems at ‘Silver-Where?’, the latest brilliantly executed exhibition by In Tandem, an innovative platform for graduates from The Royal College of Art’s Goldsmithing, Silversmithing, Metalwork and Jewellery (GSM&J) department. Held at Gallery S O, one of Brick Lane’s smartest galleries, ‘Silver-Where?’ challenges our perceptions of everyday objects and the value we attach to them, suggesting a hierarchy of objects that has been turned on its head, by asking, where is the silver?
Reinterpreted and reimagined objects, created by recent graduates, make use of illusion, self-reflexion and irony. At first glance, it is a random array of items, but evidence of complex thought and process evolves with time. It’s worth trying to accost one of the curators, Christopher Thompson-Royds or Jasleen Kaur, for some insight into the objects on show. Part of the charm of the exhibition is in the twists and turns, the sense of exploration and surprise, so we’ll try not to give too much away here.
‘The Void’ by Miyo Yoshida/ ‘APeel’ by Alkesh Parmar
Whilst some of the work takes a fresh look at untapped existing materials, as in Alkesh Parmar’s durable, usable compressed orange peel product range, APeel, others aim to transcend cultural differences, as in Jasleen Kaur’s carpeted chair cushions which reference the differing seating customs in Indian and Western dining.
Max Warren uses unusual engraving methods to create hidden holograms within a series of copper and gilt copper discs (can you see the ampersand in the image below?). Digitally printed tablecloths by Victoria Delany lend pattern to plain silver tableware, and Miyo Yoshida strips ‘value’ (or does she add it?) from a range of designer accessories.
Silver-Where? at Gallery S O/ ‘After Meyer’ by Max Warren
Referencing the increasing value we attribute to new technologies, Marion Isaert’s iPad Wax Tablet links what has become an iconic 21st Century technological product to its most ancient form, the wax tablet, and Suzi Tibbetts presents a literal representation of the ‘audio book’.
‘Audio Books’ by Suzi Tibbetts/ ’100% Carpet Seat Cover’ by Jasleen Kaur & Victoria Delaney tablecloth
As well as working on the premise that one person’s junk is another person’s treasure, the exhibition seems to question the pigeonholing of those working in particular creative disciplines. It asks us to accept that the industry is moving away from more traditional materials and practices, and embracing a sense of experimentation.
Take note, there are surprises in the loo, so make sure you pay it a visit!
‘Silver-Where?’ runs until 2nd October 2011 at Gallery S O, 92 Brick Lane, London, E1 6RL. Open Wednesdays to Saturdays 12-6pm, Sunday 12 – 5pm. There is a late night opening on 20th September. Admission is free.
Gallery S O
The Royal College of Arts
Alkesh Parmar
Miyo Yoshida
Suzi Tibbetts
Marion Isaert
Victoria Delany
Jasleen Kaur
Christopher Thompson- Royds
