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New season of artwork goes on show

Artwork from Temple of the Occult by Robin Spalding

Artwork inspired by occult traditions launches a new series of free public exhibitions at the University of York student-run Norman Rea art gallery in Derwent College.

Temple of the Occult, is on show at the Norman Rea Gallery until 27 October, and takes the form of the interior of an imagined temple, representing the mythology, rituals and artefacts of various occult traditions.

Photo from 'Steel Making in Sheffield' by documentary photographer Martin Pick

Image from Steel Making in Sheffield


Illustration by Miss Hazard, aka artist Harriet Wood

Illustration by Miss Hazard, aka artist Harriet Wood

The exhibition, which brings together the work of a number of artists, is curated by Robin Spalding, a London-based installation artist, who has previously made similar installations for Shunt and The Institute of Contemporary Art, London.

Mayssa Kachicho, Director of the Norman Rea Gallery, said: “We are very excited to start the new academic year with Robin Spalding’s installation, Temple of the Occult. As well as artworks by Robin, it includes a print of Stele of the Zos Kia Cultus by Austin Osman Spare, whose work is of essential significance to contemporary Occultism. There is also a fascinating selection of work by Hector de Gregorio, a contemporary occult artist who is currently attracting considerable attention.”

The Norman Rea Gallery is run entirely by students at the University. Situated above The Courtyard in Derwent College, the gallery hosts exciting exhibitions throughout the year and promotes the work of both student and professional artists. The gallery hosts three exhibitions a term with lectures, seminars and events. 

Mayssa, an undergraduate student at the York Management School, said: “Through involvement in the amazing creative space offered by the Norman Rea Gallery, students including myself are able to gain direct experience in curatorial practice. This is a great experience for anyone wishing to pursue a career in an art gallery or museum, as it enhances organisational, team working and curatorial skills.”

This term’s series of exhibitions continues with Steel Making in Sheffield from 6 November, followed by Miss Hazard from 26 November.

Steel Making in Sheffield, by documentary photographer Martin Pick, portrays the hidden world of molten steel being cast, forged and machined into finished articles in Sheffield’s Lower Don Valley. The exhibition is curated by Rachel Kidd and Catherine Smyth, both Department of History of Art undergraduate students.

Miss Hazard, aka artist Harriet Wood, is a Bristol-based urban illustrator and designer whose work ranges from street art to imagery for the contemporary music and performance industry. Her influences are tribal and communal art from around the world, with her portfolio including design for print, fashion and fabric, typography, album design and street art. The exhibition is curated by Alexandra Jeffrey, an undergraduate student in the Department of History of Art.

The Norman Rea Gallery, situated in Derwent College, on the University’s Heslington West campus, is open to all weekdays from 9am to 5pm.

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