Lay of the Land (and other such myths) at Airspace Gallery, Stoke-on-Trent

Abstract

Lay of the Land (and other such myths) is an exhibition that seeks to challenge anti-progressive forms of power through an imaginary subversive place. Fictional island constructions cite cinematic, geographic and literary references to explore a scene in which radical representations of women control their own space, and their own bodies, on their own terms.

Stepping into the gallery reveals an otherworldly space that blurs the boundaries between fiction and reality. Using JG Ballard’s 1974 novel Concrete Island as a starting point, Lucas has explored the Brownfield sites situated close to AirSpace Gallery to produce new sculptural, photographic and video works for the gallery installation.

Interpreting these sites as ‘deserts’ and with references to real and fictional female characters throughout, this location is juxtaposed with Lucas’s recent works inspired by the California Desert. Punctuating the strong visual aesthetic of the exhibition is a new sound work developed by Lucas in collaboration with singers from across the region.

Working from harmony to a chaotic, discordant sound, the all female choir individually
and collectively fill the installation with their voices. Celebrating the launch of the exhibition on Friday 5 May, this specially assembled choir will be performing live within the gallery.

Signaling the conclusion of Victoria Lucas’s successful touring project, which previously visited London Art Fair and HOME in Manchester, this exhibition brings together work made over the last 2-years. The Lay of the land (and other such myths) exhibition has been produced by Mark Devereux Projects in partnership with AirSpace Gallery.

Lay of the land (and other such myths) has been funded and/or supported by Arts Council England, University of Central Lancashire, HOME, AirSpace Gallery and Staffordshire University.