Abstract

This exhibition examined how contemporary artists approach objects as containers – as a reliquary contains objects of devotion – vessel like containers and even shelf like structures made by sculptors often evoke or suggest the same hint at the possibility of containing or presenting something desirable. As nineteenth century collectors’ cabinets of curiosity held special and totemic items: artists, curators and collectors still maintain a desire to contain and present beautiful objects within vessels. The picture frame itself, or the pages of a book could also be described as a container for object veneration. The exhibition featured Andrew Bracey, Thomas Chaffe, Oliver Tirre, Lois Gardner Asbet and Lauren O'Grady, it was curated by Jennie Syson.