An abstract map representing Sidmouth’s interconnected art and cultural scene is the latest work on display at the Wall Space overlooking the Ham East car park.
The artwork is based on an original 12-layer screen print by Emma Molony and was digitalised for display by Sam Eyre.
Emma was commissioned to explore Sidmouth’s diverse art, conservation and cultural organisations by Sidmouth School of Art in early 2022. Her research produced a multi-layered map depicting a wide range of organisations, events, funding bodies, community/green spaces and nature/conservation groups, with lines showing the connections between them.
David Shrigley, visual artist and co-founder/trustee of Sidmouth School of Art, said: “Having a map of the cultural connections in Sidmouth is a really valuable thing for us at Sidmouth School of Art. I think Emma’s artwork has been a really great starting point and I hope that other people will find it equally intriguing.”
Emma Molony said: “I think this is a project that will grow, the content will grow. Different artists and community groups will input into it and that feels like the start of something special.”
Digital artist Sam Eyre, who translated Emma’s screen print to digital format using an Ipad, said: “The process of deconstructing Emma’s original screen print, rebuilding it and putting it back together, you can start to push things digitally and in lots of different ways, that’s a really exciting prospect.”
Phil Gibby, area director for Arts Council England South West, said: “It’s great to see projects like Sidmouth School of Art’s Sidmouth Map be supported through the Arts Council’s National Lottery Project Grants.
"Thanks to Lottery players, communities in the coastal Devon town can enjoy a wall of creativity, exploring life in the town.
"The project aligns with Let’s Create - the collaborative approach taken with the community and creating opportunities for hundreds of fantastic artists.
"We’re pleased to see this happen for the people of Sidmouth, and the wider region, and can’t wait for residents and visitors to engage with it over its run.”
With the help of Sidmouth based videographer Seb Fitzhenry, the development of the project was captured on film and is available to watch via SSA’s website.
More details about the project can also be found here.
This latest Wall Space display is part of a series of new projects designed and delivered in partnership with Sidmouth School of Art and Sidmouth Coastal Community Hub through the Sidmouth Makes Art (SMArt) project. Fine art prints of this artwork will be available to buy in the coming weeks – follow Sidmouth School of Art on Facebook and Instagram @sidmouthschool_art for latest updates.
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