The exhibition at Two Temple Place, “Lives Less Ordinary”, explores the richness of British working-class life through over 150 pieces by 60 artists. Curated by Samantha Manton, it addresses historical misrepresentation and challenges stereotypes, showcasing diverse perspectives from women’s experiences to intersections of race and identity, all while emphasising the value of working-class narratives in the art world.
The exhibition “Lives Less Ordinary: Working Class Britain Re-Seen” at Two Temple Place examines British working-class life through over 150 works by 60 artists. The opulent setting contrasts with its focus on underrepresented artists, illuminating their contributions to culture. It aims to address the longstanding cultural misrepresentation of working-class experiences in UK institutions, underscoring the notion that ‘art has a class problem’.
Curator Samantha Manton acknowledges her own journey, noting the challenges faced by those from working-class backgrounds in the art world. The exhibition seeks to reject clichéd depictions, aiming for a portrayal that showcases the richness and complexity of working-class lives, exemplified by Bert Hardy’s joyful 1948 photograph of boys in Glasgow’s Gorbals area.
Historical works reveal various facets of working-class life, such as Jack Smith’s painting of a toddler, focusing on domesticity rather than political commentary. Feminist influences appear from the 1960s onwards, with artists like Jo Spence and Kelly O’Brien using art to explore women’s experiences and challenges in a changing society, reflecting the ongoing legacy of working-class women.
The exhibition also presents diverse contemporary experiences with pieces by George Shaw, Beryl Cook, and Connor Coulston, emphasising a broad spectrum of identities. Photography by Neil Kenlock highlights the British Caribbean community, showcasing their lives and homes, while other artists illustrate intersections of class with gender, race, and sexuality through their works.
This exploration of ‘working class’ is expansive, tying into low-paid service and manual work, as well as clerical roles. Manton states that class encompasses more than economics; it includes personal history and identity. This exhibition offers a vital platform for artists to express their narratives, emphasising their value and brilliance in the broader art landscape.
The exhibition “Lives Less Ordinary” provides an insightful look into the complexities of British working-class life through varied artistic expressions. By challenging stereotypes and presenting nuanced experiences, it highlights the cultural contributions of working-class artists. It serves as an essential reminder of the importance of diverse representation in art, urging the recognition of these voices in the cultural conversation.
Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com