Dinh Q Lê, Ikon, Birmingham
Vietnamese artist Dinh Q Lê’s new video work – co-commissioned by Ikon and Artangel – is loosely based on 19th century depictions of a cluster of islands off the west coast of Peru. Rich in guano, a powerful fertiliser, the films explore the drama of absurdity, greed and human suffering – all for the brown gold of bird excrement.
Until 3 April 2016. www.ikon-gallery.org
John Akomfrah, Arnolfini, Bristol
John Akomfrah’s Vertigo Sea is a sensual and poetic meditation on man’s relationship with the sea and an exploration of its role in the history of slavery, migration, and conflict. Premiered at last year’s Venice Biennale, this three-screen film installation merges archival material, readings from classical sources, and newly shot footage depicting the horror and cruelty of the whaling industry. The Artes Mundi 7-nominated artist also presents his new Arts Council England Collection commission, Tropikos.
Until 10 April 2016. www.arnolfini.org.uk
Ryan Mosley, Alison Jacques Gallery, London
This exhibition of large-scale paintings by Sheffield-based artist Ryan Mosley is a surreal merging of abstraction and figurative. The works feature an eclectic cast of characters journeying through a fantastical world that appears both historic and of our time. Also on show are a series of smaller, more intimate portraits.
Until 3 March 2016. www.alisonjacquesgallery.com
Merlin James, CCA, Glasgow
Reworking paintings over long periods, Glasgow-based painter Merlin James’ intensively worked canvases encompass a wide variety of subject matter including empty interiors, rural landscapes, architecture and scenes of sexual intimacy. Also on show are what the artist refers to as ‘by-products’ – small model buildings made with offcuts from his picture frames.
Until 13 March 2016. www.cca-glasgow.com
Laura Lancaster, New Art Gallery, Walsall
This series of paintings draws inspiration from forgotten and discarded photographs and home movies. Often found in flea markets, charity shops and through eBay, Lancaster’s luscious, gestural and expressive painting technique detaches the source material from its original context. The focus of this exhibition is the artist’s new series of diptychs, drawn from the very first and last frames of found super 8mm home movies.
Until 8 May 2016. www.thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk
