189 MILES: Wool Installation - Wallspace
Preview by Lizzie Guilfoyle
IN THE run-up to Easter, Angela Wright – known for her architectural-scale installations in both public and private locations – has installed a massive hank of wool weighing 51kg (103lb) and measuring 189 miles, at Wallspace.
Entitled 189 MILES: Wool Installation, it will be on display until April 13, 2009.
The piece represents both an obstacle and a portal, which hangs as two cascading skeins parted like a doorway and spilling out across the floor in the nave of the church. Visitors are able to stand close and walk inside the piece, touch and feel its enclosing warmth.
Speaking about her work, Wright said, “Visiting the site I was struck by the ceiling’s creamy softness and flower-like patterns. I imagined a work that would connect these characteristics with the floor and ‘pour’ them over it.
“I chose natural wool for its church symbolism and vernacular associations. Woollen garments and blankets are part of our existence from newborn to very old, giving comfort, warmth and protection.”
Wool also suggests the journey towards Easter, with associated themes of spring, redemption, new life and inevitable reference to the paschal (Easter) lamb. The installation offers opportunity for quiet and contemplation.
Two wool companies – Curtis Wool Direct Ltd and Lyles Carpet Yarns – provided 189 miles of wool, which was cut into 25m lengths. This was prepared in Wright’s studio, then transported to Wallspace and finalised on site.
On Easter Saturday, April 11 (from 2pm to 4pm) there will be a family workshop led by Angela Wright for families with children from 6 to 10 years of age. Although this event is free, booking is essential.
Wallspace is an exhibition venue in All Hallows on the Wall, a church in the heart of the City of London. Its aim is to explore the richness, diversity and risk of the work of contemporary artists interested in the relationship between art and the spiritual. In doing so, Wallspace challenges artists to respond to its unique setting so that the work changes the space and the space sets up a dialogue with the work.
Admission: Free.
Times: Tuesday to Friday from 12 to 6pm, Saturday from 11am to 4pm. Special Easter openings: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 11am to 4pm.
Wallspace, All Hallows on the Wall, 83 London Wall, EC2M 5ND