Grayson's Art Club: The Exhibition

During the lockdown, Grayson Perry, a renowned British artist, hosted a TV series called Art Club, which brought the nation together through art. He encouraged the public to create their own artworks in response to the crisis, receiving nearly 10,000 entries. The exhibition at Manchester Art Gallery showcases the creativity and imagination of the nation, grouped in themes such as portraits, animals, fantasy, and more. The show aims to celebrate the joy and solace of making art and reflect on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2020
Publisher: Manchester Art Gallery

During the lockdown, Grayson Perry, a renowned British artist, played a significant role in bringing the nation together through art. As part of his Channel 4 TV series, he hosted the show from his studio, taking the country along with him as he created his own new art pieces. Each week, he explored different themes, including portraits, animals, fantasy, views from his window, home, and Britain.

A remarkable aspect of the series was Grayson's invitation to the public to submit their own artworks they had created at home. He engaged with them through video calls, selecting his favorite artworks. The response was overwhelming, with nearly 10,000 entries received. The variety of entries showcased the imagination, skill, and creativity of the nation, using various mediums such as canvas, paper, photography, sculpture, and mixed media.

The exhibition at Manchester Art Gallery, titled "Art Club: Unleashing Creativity in Isolation," aims to catalog the works created by Grayson Perry, Philippa Perry, the invited artists, and celebrities. The exhibition will showcase the artworks grouped not by hierarchy of fame or value but by themes, reflecting the shared experiences we have lived through during the COVID-19 crisis.

Art Club, from its inception, has been about the benefits of making art accessible to all. This exhibition embodies the true spirit of the series, showcasing artworks grouped not by hierarchy but by themes that resonate with the collective experiences of the nation. Each artwork will hang alongside others that speak to the shared emotions and obsessions of artists, regardless of their level of fame or recognition.

This exhibition is a testament to the resilience and creativity of artists across the country, whether they are emerging talents or established figures. It captures the essence of their feelings and obsessions during this extraordinary time, providing a glimpse into their artistic journeys. The exhibition offers a platform for artists to express themselves, connect with others, and find solace in the power of art during challenging times.

In conclusion, Grayson Perry's "Art Club: Unleashing Creativity in Isolation" series played a vital role in bridging the gap during the lockdown. Through art, he brought the nation together, fostering creativity and providing a sense of connection during a time of isolation. The exhibition at Manchester Art Gallery showcases the diverse range of artworks created by artists from all over the country, reflecting the shared experiences and emotions of the COVID-19 crisis. It serves as a testament to the power of art and its ability to inspire, connect, and heal.

Weight: 628g
Dimension: 149 x 209 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780901673992