Biennial Award winner, Ed Burkes, showcases new solo exhibition at Derby Museums
Dandelion is an exhibition of new paintings by artist Ed Burkes, winner of the eighth Jonathan Vickers Fine Art Award that opens to the public on Friday 11 September at Derby Museum and Art Gallery and runs until 21 February 2021.
Established by Foundation Derbyshire in 1998, with the help of a legacy from the late Jonathan Vickers, the biennial Award brings to Derbyshire a rising artist every two years to produce work on the theme 'A Sense of Place', inspired by the county’s people, heritage and landscape.
Based at the University of Derby’s Banks Mill Studios, Ed has produced a body of new work for solo exhibitions at both Derby Museum and Art Gallery and the Mall Galleries in London. Ed's work in Derbyshire has been inspired by everyday observations, hidden history and the poetics of language, and the tradition of Well Dressing is a recurring theme.
Ed Burkes says:
“I’m very lucky to have been awarded this residency. For me, making artwork is such a cathartic and pleasant experience - it really helps me consolidate my thoughts and feelings about the world. Making art is really easy to do and if I can help open that up for people, that would be great. My ideas are sparked from the commonplace, a drawing or situation: a friend drinking coffee, a buddy pulling up his socks, someone browsing in the fruit and veg section of Tesco Express. Through the process of painting, everyday scenes are given a mythic or heroic air.”
Tony Butler, Executive Director of Derby Museums says:
“We are delighted to be hosting the results of this prestigious award once again. Ed’s work is a really exciting collection taking inspiration from the everyday experience in the world around us.”
Rachael Grime, Chief Executive of Foundation Derbyshire says:
“The Jonathan Vickers Fine Art Award is one of the most valuable art prizes in the country and Ed is a truly worthy winner. Overcoming the challenges and obstacles of lockdown, he has created a bold and intriguing body of work full of colour, theatre, folklore and nods to the everyday.”
Dandelion opens to the public this Friday (11th September) at Derby Museum and Art Gallery and entry is free to all, with a request to Give What You Think.