Artists put work created during lockdown on show as they use experiences as their inspiration

A group of artists who channelled their lockdown experiences into their work have put it on show for people to finally see.
By Fiona Thompson
Published 24th Oct 2020, 07:00 BST

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The Sunderland Indie collective has put the Next Steps exhibition on display at Washington Arts Centre, with guests invited to take a tour under a a carefully managed space in the venue.

It opens up to the public tomorrow, Saturday, October 24, and will run for an initial four weeks, with a view to extending it for another two.

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It includes paintings, textiles, wire work and installations, which have all been spaces out around the gallery.

James Wilkinson at a collection of his art work on show at the Next Steps exhibition at the Washington Arts Centre. Picture by FRANK REIDJames Wilkinson at a collection of his art work on show at the Next Steps exhibition at the Washington Arts Centre. Picture by FRANK REID
James Wilkinson at a collection of his art work on show at the Next Steps exhibition at the Washington Arts Centre. Picture by FRANK REID
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Among those to contribute is Barrie West, who turned his front room into his studio when he was unable to head to his usual workspace due to the March lockdown.

"I have got terrific family around me and there we were in isolation and I though if I’m going to be here at home, I need something to keep myself occupied with.

"It helped stave off the boredom and the others also found their artwork helped in the circumstances and helped us get through it.

Art work waiting to be hung at the Next Steps exhibition at the Washington Arts Centre. Picture by FRANK REIDArt work waiting to be hung at the Next Steps exhibition at the Washington Arts Centre. Picture by FRANK REID
Art work waiting to be hung at the Next Steps exhibition at the Washington Arts Centre. Picture by FRANK REID
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"The exhibition is interesting, its educational and people might like to spend some time looking around the artworks.”

Other artists involved are Anna Glover, Dean Turnbull, Denise Dowdeswell, James Wilkinson, Kath Price and Lyn Killeen.

More about the work of the group, which has previously exhibited at Mackie’s Corner, can be found via its Facebook page.

Artist Barrie West in front of one of his many creations on show at the Next Steps exhibition at the Washington Arts Centre. Picture by FRANK REIDArtist Barrie West in front of one of his many creations on show at the Next Steps exhibition at the Washington Arts Centre. Picture by FRANK REID
Artist Barrie West in front of one of his many creations on show at the Next Steps exhibition at the Washington Arts Centre. Picture by FRANK REID

Details about what is on at Washington Arts Centre can be found through its website https://sunderlandculture.org.uk/our-venues/arts-centre-washington/.

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