Overview
This project engaged with Grand Union as a site for learning, providing a context for a rich programme of events, artworks and communal sharing of knowledge.
TEXT
Ways of Learning foregrounded forms of knowledge production that stem from anecdote, informality and collectivity, in contrast to increasingly marketised formal educational systems.
This project engaged with Grand Union as a site for learning, providing a context for a rich programme of events, artworks and communal sharing of knowledge.
Departing from three key works by artists Alex Martinis Roe, Uriel Orlow and feminist action group Mujeres Públicas, Ways of Learning drew from feminisms, generational alliances and indigenous knowledges, as well as forms of solidarity and allegiance which intersect with queer culture.
Ways of Learning was programmed by Lucy Lopez with Grand Union staff. Lopez is Grand Union’s Curator-in-Residence 2018-19.
Learning Space
The gallery hosted a working and learning environment designed and built by local architecture practice Intervention Architecture.
The gallery was open for anyone to use and share with us. We provided seating with a work space, WiFi and tea and coffee throughout the project.
Central Works
Alex Martinis Roe’s film work explores genealogies of queer, feminist and working class action.
Uriel Orlow’s films depict enduring culinary and herbal practices in distinct communities.
Mujeres Públicas present posters and printed material responding to sexism and domestic labour in Latin America.
New Commissions & Extended Programme
Sean Burns reimagined queer periodical In The Pink, from Birmingham’s LGBT archives (presented with SHOUT Queer Arts Festival)
Artists’ duo Cooking Sections were in residence during Ways of Learning, exploring the food and material histories and ecologies around the canals and the wider West Midlands.
Artist & Grand Union Gallery Assistant, Kirsty Clarke, hosted a series of workshops with local groups in her mobile studio kitchen, based at Grand Union throughout the programme.
We presented newly-commissioned writing by artist Cathy Wade, developed responsively to the show. There was also new writing and events with writers Huw Lemmey and Juliet Jacques thinking through alternative pedagogies and collective thinking.
