Past Exhibition
26 April – 14 August 2016
Drawing inspiration from 19th century novels and natural history illustrations, British artist Edwina Ashton (b. 1965) presents darkly humorous films, drawings and sculptures.
Renowned for her interest in animals, zoology and our perceptions of nature, the artist uses her invented creatures to explore human emotions, foibles and world-views. Her characters emerge from sketches, overheard conversations and experiments with second-hand materials. Most of her creatures appear in films and occasionally they appear in public.
Ashton is fascinated by how animals think, how language shapes our world and how materials suggest the imaginary. While recognising that humans are animals, she explores the subtle relationships between them, interweaving scientific and poetic sensibilities.
Alongside this commission Ashton worked with Thornhill Primary School. in London to look at how children gather ideas, sounds and images. Her workshops are documented here.
Find out more about Whitechapel Gallery Children’s Commissions.
Summer Family Day
Sat 9 Jul, 12–4pm
Free
From film animation to puppetry and performance, join a range of family activities developed with Edwina Ashton. More
