Supporting artists with intellectual disabilities through our studio and gallery, promoting their work and advocating for their inclusion in contemporary art practice.
DONATE NOW30 April – 12 June 2022
Taking place as part of Photo 2022, โUgly/Beautifulโ is a solo exhibition of photographic work by mixed-media artist Mark Smith; it presents a space for beauty and ugliness to coalesce. Exploring identity, difference and faith, the artwork aims to express feelings of joy, yet, the viewerโs experience is more confronting, with imagery depicting digital collages of body parts lurching outwards from a black background, prompting feelings of disconnectedness, discomfort and unease.
โAfter my accident, I was told Iโd never walk again. I proved them wrong. I consider limitations and barriers imposed on me as an invitation/motivation to fuel my determination to create and succeed. My works are ambiguous to the viewing public. However, my greater intention is to break down preconceived understandings of disability. My lifeโs experiences are definitely an inspiration for my artworks.โ โMark Smith, 2021
