Senior Lecturer in Arts, Denise Bryan, and Tere Chad co-curated the Royal Society of Sculptors’ “ON THE EDGE 2.0” exhibition. This exhibition features works by sculptors from around the world, created during a time of intense global challenges, including the war in Ukraine and the climate crisis. The artists, who initially connected via Zoom during the pandemic, offer profound reflections on these themes through their sculptures.
Co-curators Denise Bryan and Tere Chad draw inspiration from a poignant quote by Ukrainian poet Boris Khersonsky: “Every hut in our beloved country is on the edge. And to be honest, I’m on the edge too. I feel sorry for the ones at the centre, but really I’m especially sorry for the ones in the camp towers, watching the frosty distance…”
Among the exhibiting sculptors are two from Ukraine, Borys Krylov and Oles Sydoruk, who continue their practice amidst the challenges in Kiev. Stephen Duncan, an artist and poet in the group, recently visited them and gained firsthand insight into life there. Upon his return, Stephen shared how vital sculpture and art are for the people of Ukraine. This inspired the group to view this exhibition not as a reprise, but as a continuation.