Business people from across the region recently came to a special business viewing of a unique art exhibition at The University of Nottingham.
The First Cut is a major exhibition, held at the Lakeside’s Djanogly Art Gallery, which features new and recent works by over 30 international contemporary artists who work with paper in revolutionary ways. It explores how established and emerging artists transform paper through cutting, folding and sculpting into amazingly powerful creations
Hosted by the University’s Business Engagement team, Neil Walker, the Lakeside’s Arts Officer walked guests through the exhibition, discussing the life and work of each of the artists.
Speaking about the event, Mike Carr, Director of Business Engagement and Innovation Services, said: “Lakeside is a great asset for the people of Nottingham. We feel that it’s also important for us to showcase its facilities and these amazing exhibitions to the local business community through our work. The Lakeside is also an excellent venue to stimulate thought and for businesses to network with each other in a relaxed environment and we plan to do further events like this in the future.”
The artists featured cite a diverse range of influences on their work, from globalisation and environmentalism, to architecture, fashion, fairytales and even death metal. The works vary dramatically in size and form, from the miniature to the fully immersive, but all transform a basic material into fantastical works of art with high levels of craftsmanship and obsessive detail.
One of the local business people who attended the event was Jim Lound, Product Director of Experian, he said: “I really enjoyed the evening at The First Cut exhibition. It was fascinating to hear about the artists, how they work with paper and what inspired them. I will certainly look out for future exhibitions here.”
Sarah Manton, who runs a design business based in Lower Parliament Street in Nottingham, also attended the networking event, she said: "I am a papercutter myself, and the pieces in this exhibition were simply inspirational. I can fully appreciate the skill and artistry required, but listening to the curator of the exhibition, Neil Walker,really brought to life the stories and technical ability behind these intricate works."
For more details about what’s one at the Lakeside, visit www.lakesidearts.org.uk
For details about The University of Nottingham’s services for business, visit www.nottingham.ac.uk/servicesforbusiness
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