Striking sculptures take over Sunderland venues

Baldock Pope Zahle brings together artists of all ages and explores peoples’ relationship to materials and making.

Running until June, it sees striking sculptures and artworks being hosted at Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art and Sunderland Minster.

Sunderland City Council’s portfolio holder for public health, wellness and culture, Coun John Kelly, said: “Events such as these show the huge variety to be found in art and culture, and we are proud to continue making such exhibitions accessible to everyone.

“Culture is an intrinsic part of our city, not only do we host touring exhibitions of national importance we also have a vibrant live music scene, Glass Centre, stadium concerts and many award-winning parks and gardens.”

In Baldock Pope Zahle the artists use materials such as glass, textiles and ceramics, translating their own circumstances and experiences into exuberant work.

Within the exhibition Jonathan Baldock presents a carpeted installation including figurative sculptures.

This commission is the first time Nicholas Pope has worked with glass and sees his original drawings displayed alongside chalices.

To accompany the exhibition, Pope’s Yahweh and the Seraphim is presented in the UK for the first time at Sunderland Minster. Last displayed at the Stedelijk Museum in Holland, the sculpture articulates Pope’s theological interests.

Maria Zahle has created a work that spans the length of the main gallery at NGCA. Made from rip-stop nylon, the sculpture zigzags from floor to ceiling.

The exhibition will be supplemented with new writing, events, talks and workshops across the NGCA and Sunderland Minster.

Baldock Pope Zahle has been initiated by NGCA curator George Vasey and is supported by Sunderland City Council, The National Glass Centre, Chapter, C’Art, Arts Council England, and Grosserer L.F. Foghts Fond.