'URGENCIES' (2021) for CCA Derry~Londonderry

URGENCIES (2021) is the second iteration of CCA Derry~Londonderry’s biennial group exhibition. The artwork selected for the exhibition comes from an open call that seeks to take the temperature of what emerging artists working today with a connection to our region consider to be urgent.

Two key themes of identity and environment thread throughout the off-site exhibition as well as many other topics encompassing both deeply personal experiences and global political events. The artists explore questions of care and labour (Siobhán Kelly), mental health (Brian Farrell, Lucie McLaughlin), borders, technology and nature (Bryony Dunne, Christopher Steenson), home and self-[removed]Kathryn Graham, Michael Hanna, Patrick Hickey), pollution and the effects of global crises (Martin Boyle, Edy Fung) and the role of the artist and communication (Frank Wasser).

URGENCIES (2021) was selected by artist Locky Morris and CCA Director Catherine Hemelryk and features new and recent work ranging in media from print, film, photography, sound, painting, manifestations online and in daily life.

URGENCIES (2021) would usually be held within CCA’s galleries at 10–12 Artillery Street, however due to the ongoing pandemic, the project is taking place offsite and online. Artworks are visible across our city through the windows of landmark buildings, commercial spaces, homes and arts organisations also currently closed to the public. CCA is grateful to all of the hosts, artists and supporters for making URGENCIES (2021) possible.

Keep an eye on CCA’s social media (@CCADLD on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) for updates.

URGENCIES (2021) was made possible thanks to support from: Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Derry & Strabane District Council, The Elephant Trust, Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin, Millennium Forum, Verbal Arts Centre, Derry Print Workshop, Quayside Shopping Centre, St Columb’s Court, Waterside Theatre, Cathedral School, St Columb’s Cathedral, Checkpoint Charlie, Quayside Shopping Centre and to all of the artists and staff at the host venues and CCA team.

CCA is a publicly funded space within the historic city walls of Derry~Londonderry. CCA creates opportunities for audiences to experience ambitious, experimental and engaging art and for emerging artists to develop successful careers. CCA fosters a wide range of artistic, curatorial and critical practices through five programme streams: research and production, exhibition-making, public programmes, publishing and residencies.

CCA is a member of Plus Tate:

Plus Tate is a network, which comprises 35 cultural institutions – including the Tate galleries – that have strong artistic vision, a focus on contemporary art, outstanding public programming and a commitment to local community engagement through art. Plus Tate aims to support the development of the visual arts across the UK.

CCA has a range of safety measures to ensure staff and visitors can enjoy exhibitions with the knowledge that every precaution is taken. This includes hand sanitisers at entrances and exits, track and trace, screens and heightened cleaning schedules. All who are able to wear a mask are invited to do so and a dedicated isolation room is available in the event of the onset of symptoms.

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