Working at the Avondale Centre, one can become a little blase about the vibrant and imaginative art work that surrounds one every day. Show a visitor around and it becomes possible again to see the work with 'new eyes' and a renewed sense of joy. It is people's warm response to the paintings, sculpture and craftwork that continues to reinforce the conviction that the artists should have the opportunity to exhibit their work to a wider audience.
Shedding a Light is the most ambitious exhibition to date and shows an exciting and stimulating body of work. Unfortunately, there has long been a lack of respect and recognition for much of the art work produced by Adults with Learning Difficulties. The label is often seen first and the work second. This exhibition is an opportunity to redress that balance and to promote the work with the respect it deserves, and to have it on show at appropriate venues.
Although the artists are linked by their attendance at the Avondale Centre, each piece of work is an individual's expression and reflection of the world around them; their experiences and histories. All the artists involved in this exhibition have demonstrated a deep and sometimes lifelong commitment to their art, each developing strong individual styles and pursuing their own goals, like artists the world over. Their art isn't restricted by conventional constraints and the artists have maintained an enthusiasm and passion for their work.
Organising this exhibition has been a learning process for all concerned. The artists have been involved in selecting their work for the exhibition and putting together their own statement for the catalogue. Not all the work reproduced in this catalogue will necessarily be on exhibition and the final selection of work for each exhibition remains with the organisers.
We would like to take the opportunity here to thank all those who have supported this venture, particularly the contributors to this catalogue, who have added their voices to the continuing process of bringing this work to a wider audience and breaking down a few more preconceptions and prejudices.
Liz Hall & Marc Steen
Day
Centre Officers
Grace Eyre Foundation
January 1998
