Objects, Multiples and Other Limited Editions
A Showcase Exhibition by Manya Donaque
Objects, multiples and other limited editions combines a collection of objects, prints, drawing, live performance video installation, found objects, words, books, and multiples in a multi-faceted exploration of life, death and rituals.
Manya explained, “The exhibition is a mix of past and new work. I am very interested in the cycle of life and death, but this is positive not morbid. Ultimately, it is about recognising death and so not living for the sake of it, but living with intention.”
Manya highlighted various themes and elements she had incorporated into her work. She advised, “The theme of burning dates from when I was a student here doing my MA. My father died of cancer and he wanted to be cremated. It is reconciliation; being set free like the wax birds. Burning candles are like our lives - at the end we will all be extinguished. The films are performances filmed in the woods, like a life condensed.
Almost all my family is represented in the exhibition. I have used hair from friends and from my late father, as we saved his hair from the last haircut he had just before he died. Hair is a collection of dead cells – but who we are really – and there is something about hair as protection.
Hair is not just remains. We lose some every day, and we also lose teeth – these are reminders that life is very short. It is a warning that we have to think about what are going to do while we are here, but also tell loved ones you care about them. We need to live in peace with our conscience. Really look at things and how we can make life good. If you are sad or angry with someone or have stopped communicating with them, sort it out before it is too late and they are gone.
Beasts uses horse hair and human hair to show the correlation between the human and the animal instinct and which is dominant. I have made a small memorial to those girls in Bradford who have been killed by a beast in human form.
There are two cabinets that feature a mix of paganism and Catholic influences. I am a believer but in case there is nothing else, when you are here you should make the most of it. The feathers are about going back to nature. You don’t have to be a spiritual entity to become a shaman. To heal someone you draw their name, think about them, light candles and free them.”
You can see exhibition highlights here
Preview Evening: Friday 10th September, from 4.30pm until 8pm
Showcase exhibition runs from Friday 10th September to Friday 29th October 2010.
Showcase exhibition opening times: Monday to Friday, 8.30am until 4.30pm