The nomadic, carefree and unorthodox structure of family life cultivated by Cher’s character led to questions we hope the exhibition will explore. How might a creature who is somewhere between a fish and human interact with functional items that furnish a domestic space. How will they be used, interpreted or repurposed through an interaction ignorant of their intended use.
This idea of the inbetween: inbetween land and sea, human and fish, function and dysfunction, domestic and exterior, seductress and serpent, are all themes we asked the artists to touch upon within their work.
Mermaids opened with a VIP breakfast, as part of the Frieze In The City Programme.
‘Mermaids’ was an inaugural exhibition at Corner7, a new project space run by artist Rose Davey, adjacent to Rochester Square. Co-curated with Francesca Anfossi, ‘Mermaids’ showcased the work of 28 artists, all of whom have worked or are working in clay at Rochester Square. Brecknock Primary students also contributed their drawings of works in the show, made during their visit to Mermaids ahead of the opening.
Mermaids takes its name from the title of the 1990 film starring Cher, Winona Ryder and Christina Ricci.