An intriguing new exhibition exploring the creative processes of Members of Aberdeen Artists Society opens at Aberdeen Art Gallery this weekend (Saturday 7 December).
Process, Process, Process turns the traditional format of an exhibition on its head. Instead of finished works being centre stage, the exhibition shines a light on the creative process through inspirational objects, preparatory sketches, cherished tools and work surfaces, as well as the by-products and leftover materials from an artist’s activities.
By sharing their creative processes, the eighteen artists, all members of Aberdeen Artists Society, seek to answer some of the questions artists are often asked such as: How did you make that? Where do you get your ideas from? What kind of tools do you use?
The artists are Bryan Angus, Carla Angus, Susan Bedford, Rowena Comrie, Sedem Demir, Melanie Guatelli, Amanda Hirst, Rita Kermack, Nicole Luchita, Geraldine McClure, Anne Marquiss, Fiona Michie, Ian Ritchie, Alicja Rodzik, Donnie Ross, Gerard Stott, Bruce Swanson and Fenneke Wolters-Sinke.
They work across a range of media including drawing, painting, textiles, jewellery, printmaking and sculpture, and have selected a range of objects to illustrate their processes, including sketches, tools and materials. Although there are no finished works on display at the Gallery, visitors are invited to scan QR codes to learn more about the artists and to see their artworks.
Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesperson, said: “The exhibition offers an excellent opportunity to see things from the perspective of the artists. Most of us don't usually think about the various techniques and tools that are involved in art and design activity. It is fascinating to find out more about the various items and methods that are available to produce original artwork. The displays offer eye-opening experiences about the imaginative thinking that inspires the creation of amazing objects and images in different areas of expertise. You can gain really intriguing insights from this splendid show."
Bryan Angus, Council Member, Aberdeen Artists Society, said: “Aberdeen Artists’ Society has been moving forward finding new ways to engage with the public by bringing some of the hidden skills of its members to the fore. In devising the Process, Process, Process exhibition our aim has been to reveal the unique and curious ways in which art is made. The partnership with Aberdeen Art Gallery has been immensely supportive in taking a hugely diverse collection of items and approaches our artists have brought and turning this into an engaging and informative exhibition. We look forward to future partnerships, in particular the build-up to an exhibition at the Art Gallery which will celebrate the 200th anniversary of Aberdeen Artists’ Society in 2027.”
Process, Process, Process, 7 December 2024 – 25 May 2025, Aberdeen Art Gallery (Gallery 2). Open daily (except 25, 26, 31 December and 1, 2 January), admission free. For visiting information go to www.aagm.co.uk
Artists Bruce Swanson and Gerard Stott will be giving a Lunchtime Talk at the Art Gallery on Wednesday 5 March, 12.30pm – admission free, donations welcome.
Photo (L-R): Amanda Hirst, Mel Guatelli, Cllr Greig and Gerry Stott of Aberdeen Artists Society in Aberdeen Art Gallery.