To artistically imbue socio-political themes on an unforgiving medium such as glass is no easy task. But London-based artist Gonny Van Hulst (also known as GonnyGlass) manages just that.
URBAN KINGS elevates the pest to the princely. The vermin to the valiant. The animals native to our concrete, urban environment are paid a royal homage in this exhibition. The Foxes, Rats, Pigeons, Squirrels and Crows – all endemic to the city life – have had to adapt to their industrial surroundings and survive nonetheless. By depicting these crowned creatures in such a light, URBAN KINGS reminds us of our harmonious relationship with nature despite such an adversarial environment, and that we must celebrate all living things, no matter how big or small. These citified animals are enthroned on antique English glass, hot and cold cured photo-fusing prints, paint, lacquer, and hand-forged ironwork all framed in restored late 1800s Victorian timber.
URBAN KINGS by Gonny Van Hulst - 16th to 31st May 2015
PRIVATE VIEW: Friday 15th May 6:30-9pm
9 Turnpin Lane, Greenwich, London SE10 9JA
Opening Times: Thursdays –Sundays 11-6pm | Monday –Wednesday by appointment.