A few months ago, it was inconceivable that we would get to have a physical exhibition. Lockdown in 2020 has presented all kinds of limitations, but also some fabulous opportunities. The Lonley Arts Club created three online-only exhibitions between April-July 2020. Some of the work that was featured in those virtual shows is now on exhibition for real!
The Lonely Arts Club presents In Situ at The Undercroft Gallery in Norwich. The exhibition features a diverse range of contemporary art, with some of the artists working at the venue throughout the month. It’s an ever evolving exhibition in a setting that has an industrial feel. The exhibition is open Thurs-Sat 11am-5pm until 30th September. Social distancing procedures are in place and there are Track and Trace forms upon entry. But rest assured that it is a big, airy venue:)
I love the fact that the artists have interpreted the idea of In Situ in so many compelling ways. For me, in situ means staying in one place and being in situ in 2020 was Lockdown. I suddenly had so much time to draw. For those reading this many years down the line from 2020, the pandemic of Coronavirus meant that we had to stay in our homes for months and at one point we were restricted to one hour maximum outside per day. I did a lot of drawing! I’m showing my Lockdown drawings at the In Situ exhibition, alongside four of my 20-year-old Portraits. The last time I had so much time to draw was when I was a student; when I drew the Portraits at the age of 17. It has been so exciting for me, as an artist, to have the time to draw in detail; to get away from the computer and get back to drawing in biro. Personally, it is extremely compelling to see my Portraits alongside my Lockdown drawings – same artist 20 years later.
Please do visit The Undercroft in Norwich, if you can, and enjoy a marvellous contemporary art exhibition. There are lots of photos and video clips on the Lonely Arts Club website, social media and the exhibiting artists social media channels.
And to part with that well-used, but sincere phrase in 2020 – Stay Safe xx
** The exhibition is now closed. My sincere thanks to everyone who came and experienced what I consider to be the most happening exhibition that I have ever been a part of. And most importantly, thank you to the artists who are The Lonely Artist Club; it was an utter delight to draw and talk with you in situ. **
Natalie Knowles 