Find out more about artist-illustrator Esther Kent’s creative journey and the ideas and process behind the PLAY exhibition as she’s joined by visual arts curator Helen Reid in a conversation about childhood memories, playing with materials and finding a visual voice.
This talk accompanies an exhibition of work by Esther Kent which explores expressions of play and imagination. Inspired by personal childhood memories and the way in which children so easily blend reality and imaginary wonder, this exhibition brings together mixed media drawings on paper, digital printmaking and 3D paper sculpture to give colourful, energetic glimpses of how it feels to be playful. Visitors to the gallery will be taken on a journey through stories, characters, settings, memories and experiences of play through the enchanting drawings, paintings and collages hand-made by Esther.
This exhibition forms part of an integrated programming theme that Birnam Arts are exploring in 2024 around Mothering/Parenting. Other work that engages with this theme includes ‘Family Portrait’ immersive film installation by Barrowland Ballet, a performance by poet Hollie McNish as part of her new book tour ‘Lobster’ and ‘Beyond Expectations’ exhibition and the associated workshops and events by Jo Foo.