Sting by Zest Collective
Launching Sting! By Zest Collective, their ninth exhibition and second instalment.
Exciting chapter ahead for Southampton! 'a space' arts is delighted to introduce our new temporary visual arts venue at the Old Sail Loft in Shamrock Quay, launching with our first exhibition, Sting by Zest Collective.
ZEST Collective presents ‘Sting’, their ninth exhibition and second instalment in a series of two. This group show brings together 18 artists in an exploration of resilience and creative survival.
The exhibition title, ‘Sting’ emerges from the emotional impact of rejection, a shared experience which many artists navigate when sustaining a creative practice, whilst also drawing parallel with the literal definition of the venomous sting of the Auger sea snail.
Highlighting the intersection between professional adversity and biological defence the show asks the question: what happens after the sting? Do we retreat, or do we respond?
If the sting is inevitable, ‘Sting’ asks what it means to answer back. From systemic barriers of rejection from unanswered applications, loss of funding and the erosion of accessible creative spaces, to the physicality of being stung, this exhibition offers a collective response.
Encompassing works which confront the brief directly and others which reflect more subtly on the theme of defiance and transformation. ‘Sting’ holds this question open, inviting responses that are personal, political, and provocative.
Location, Access and Quiet Spaces
- The ground floor space has step-free access from the east side of the building here. The entrance is located atmelt.snap.gifted onwhat3words.com
- The second floor space can only be accessed by two flights of stairs, approximately 40 in total. The entrance is located on the west side of the building here located at cares.catch.diary on what3words.com
- Quiet spaces will be available on-site, outside and on the second floor. These spaces will include seating and quiet music (or none at all). You are welcome to use them at any time if you would like a break. These spaces will be clearly marked on signage around the venue. Please ask a member of staff upon arrival if you would like to know more
