The exhibition “Lives Less Ordinary: Working Class Britain Re-Seen” at Two Temple Place showcases over 150 works by 60 artists celebrating British working-class life. Curator Samantha Manton addresses the historic underrepresentation of this demographic in cultural institutions, aiming to counter clichéd stereotypes. The show includes diverse perspectives on class, gender, and culture, emphasising the complexity and richness of working-class identities in Britain.
The exhibition at Two Temple Place, titled “Lives Less Ordinary: Working Class Britain Re-Seen,” features over 150 works by 60 artists, celebrating British working-class life in a richly detailed setting. Despite the Neo-Gothic grandeur, this space brilliantly contrasts with the theme of working-class representation, highlighting the historical exclusions in UK cultural institutions.
Curator Samantha Manton emphasises the urgent need to address working-class underrepresentation in the art world. She shares her personal struggles, noting, “I’ve witnessed firsthand the dismissal by art institutions of socio-economic disparity.” The exhibition aims to counter clichéd portrayals of working-class life that focus solely on struggle or protest.
The display includes diverse artworks, such as Bert Hardy’s vibrant 1948 photograph of boys in Glasgow, which was considered too optimistic for its intended context. Other pieces discuss domesticity, feminism, and working class culture; from Jo Spence’s critical photography to Kelly O’Brien’s explorative prints.
The exhibition showcases a variety of themes, illustrating how class interconnects with gender, race, and sexuality. Noteworthy works include Hardeep Pandhal’s blended signage and Jasleen Kaur’s embroidered tracksuit that reflect their unique cultural backgrounds. The project redefines ‘working class’ in modern Britain, recognising a spectrum spanning low-paid employment and diverse identities.
Manton concludes that the complexity of class extends beyond mere economic conditions, integrating a broader understanding of individual experiences. “Lives Less Ordinary” is a vital platform, ensuring that the narratives and talents of working-class artists are recognised and celebrated throughout the cultural sector.
The exhibition runs at Two Temple Place, London until 20 April.
“Lives Less Ordinary: Working Class Britain Re-Seen” is an evocative exhibition presenting the richness and complexity of British working-class life. With over 150 works highlighting diverse stories, it challenges stereotypes and urges recognition of working-class voices. Through art, it explores how class intersects with broader societal themes, demonstrating that identity is shaped not only by economic conditions but a multitude of lived experiences. The exhibition stands as a significant contribution to contemporary cultural discourse.
Original Source: theartnewspaper.com