Hull-based emerging artists exhibit newly commissioned work in exciting group show

This October, Humber Street Gallery presents some of Hull’s most exciting emerging artist talent with The Leaves Are Many..., featuring a collection of works by the 2023/2024 participants of Absolutely Cultured’s INTER_CHANGE programme.

Including art-forms such as painting, printmaking and installation, The Leaves Are Many… will showcase the work of the 5 participants whose work explores a diverse range of themes. The exhibition features individual pieces by; Maria Donnai, Bronte Teal, Layla Jabbari Harry Newman and Ian Hinley.

During the past 12 months, the group has immersed themselves in the activities that have taken place on Absolutely Cultured’s INTER_CHANGE artist development programme. Together they have explored the opportunities and challenges often faced by early-career artists. Through a series of workshops, talks and tours, they have broadened their knowledge and gained insight into the unique aspects of being a creative professional.

Marianne Lewsley-Steir, Creative Director commented: ‘We are always incredibly proud to showcase the work of Hull’s local emerging artists and highlight the exceptional talent, creativity, and professionalism that the city continues to nurture. At Absolutely Cultured, we’re deeply committed to creating opportunities for artists to grow and develop their practice through the INTER-CHANGE programme. It highlights a distinctive blend of collaboration and celebration, forming a supportive network amongst these talented artists. I am excited to see where this year’s artists will take their work next, I have no doubt what’s to come will be extraordinary.’

A key steppingstone for the artists involved has been integrating this learning into their practice and career. The showcase has supported the artists in managing the logistics of pulling an exhibition together. From ideation to installation, each member of the programme has had creative and physical involvement in the exhibition’s production to prepare them for future endeavours with other arts organisations.

Exhibitions Manager Lauren Wilson shared, ‘Seeing the culmination of the group’s hard work is truly captivating. Having had the privilege to work closely with the artists throughout the programme, it is exciting to present their talents to our audiences. The variety of works on display are a brilliant showcase of talent, voices and styles thriving in Hull. This exhibition highlights how INTER_CHANGE supports and celebrates this diversity, creating a strong local network so artists don’t have to venture further afield to seek opportunities. This exhibition puts us on the path to achieving that.’

The INTER_CHANGE group are contributing to the ongoing vitality and criticality of the artistic culture in the Humber region. They have engendered an environment of mutual support and are now equipped with the confidence and skills to navigate the artistic sector.