An exhibition about different interpretations of structure has opened at The Gallery in West Kilbride. The exhibition, Structure, shows work by six contemporary Scottish makers who interpret visions of architecture and geometry, engineering and construction, chemical transformation, nature and raw materials and society and observation.

Textile designer Gillian Cooper, jeweller Shona Fidgett and glass artist Amanda J Simmons share a common interest in architecture.  Gillian, who works in printed and knitted textiles, says “Throughout my work, the key influences are colour, architecture, unusual natural forms and texture.  How a piece of work feels is important to me…” 

Shona, discussing her work, says “I have developed my style of bold modern jewellery which takes inspiration from architecture, using geometric forms in bold clean-lined pieces”. Amanda, who works in fused glass, likes to work on themes of structure, in our lives, nature, architecture and the human body.

The natural world is the inspiration for Caroline Dear.  Talking about her sculptural basketweaving she says “Creating simple forms which have resonance, this work explores forms using natural materials; pushing grass, rush and heather to their structural limits.”  There is a close bond in her approach to ceramicist Hanne Mannheimer who says “Most of all I want my work to communicate the simple beauty that is all around us and that we only need to open our eyes to see in the most unexpected of places.”

The Gallery in West Kilbride (opens in new window) is part of Craft Town Scotland, a vibrant and dynamic social enterprise with five studios providing facilities to contemporary designer-makers, comprising of a shop front/exhibition space and workshop area.

The exhibition is on from 13 May to 17 June 2006 at The Gallery, 75/77 Main Street, West Kilbride. KA23 9AP tel: 01294 829179.  Opening hours from Tuesday to Friday 10am to 5pm and Saturday 10am to 4pm.  Admission free.

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