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11 Apr 2005 10:38:22
Luton’s development as a centre for arts and culture continues, as the University of Luton and the hat Factory Gallery host a joint exhibition by acclaimed artist John Stephens – the first collaboration of its kind since the hat Factory launched in 2004.
John, who is principal lecturer in fine art at the University’s School of Media, Art and Design, has brought together his exhibition, Without Ownership, in a series of digitally manipulated photographs that relate to our experiences of cities and their spaces.
He said: “In making these photographic images, I wanted an extended field of vision to create a sense of being there. I wanted to avoid having to stand too far away from the subject, and the resulting images have been made out of multiple shots that have been digitally joined together.
“A number were taken at night where artificial light seemed to isolate the spaces and emphasise the sense of absence.”
The images look at the ‘non-places’ within cities, including spaces composed of concrete, steel, glass and tarmac, which are absent of people.
“Spaces within cities are becoming increasingly impersonal and are determined by real estate values and the need for high return on investment. These images show spaces where people come and go but cannot take ownership,” he added.
John Stephens studied painting in Berlin before studying fine art at Manchester Polytechnic. He was closely involved with the Castlefield Gallery in Manchester during the 80s and 90s, which was one of the first artist-run galleries in Britain.
The exhibition gets under way on Thursday 7 April, continuing until 6 May 2005, and will the first of a number of exhibitions scheduled by the University throughout 2005. For further details contact the hat Factory on 01582 878100.
Latest news» 2005» Apr» Luton Lecturer Becomes First Exhibitor at Hat Factory Gallery
