AirSpace Gallery

…Anwyl Cooper-Willis makes her impression on the viewer through her imposing installation situated between the main gallery areas. The inspiration for this piece was based on the idea of control and propaganda being created through architecture. Her installation consists of what can be described as the front of a bold, powerful building, possibly linked to German architecture. The focus is on drawing our awareness to the level of control and manipulation over us and how objects such as buildings can have a big effect upon us. In order to state power and government these buildings are created and consist of large imposing structures that are used as a way of protecting the power which has been obtained; these everyday sites acting as a threat or reminder with regards to who owns who and how we must be compliant.
Anwyl has addressed this subject well as her installation is threatening in its presence and the large silver/grey pillars almost resembling prison bars, reminding us of how restricted we can become under government and law. I particularly like the use of materials as the artist has used card and paper, which beautifully symbolises just how fragile and short-lived power can be. The structure of the piece is weak and unstable and it will not stand forever the same as the power and fear that is associated with it.
Chris Hill’s photography is documentary in its style and tells the story of everyday people through a single image of their life.
There is no particular focus on one culture, class or area, the photos seem to have been taken in random areas and draw attention to the progression of British identity and society. Certain images elaborate on a person’s role within society. A car mechanic is shown standing in front of a car on a vehicle lift at a garage, then two men, who could possibly be related can be seen in work clothing standing next to agricultural machinery. In another image a woman can be seen standing behind a counter at a store. These images demonstrate to us the people behind our community who help to run and maintain the necessities that we take for granted. The style of these photographs is very similar to the type of photography that could be seen during the 1980s. The use of black and white, for me, emphasises the documentary aspect to these images and a theme of recession can be noted throughout them. This can be linked to the economic struggles during the 1980s and this is reflected through the images depicting a punk or metal gig and the football supporters at their teams match. …