As one element of Our Time, Our Place, three graduating students from the University of Salford were commissioned to produce new work in response to the themes of Craig Easton: Is Anybody Listening?
In May 2023, The University of Salford Art Collection invited proposals for new work, developed in response to the upcoming Craig Easton: Is Anybody Listening? Exhibition at Salford.
Three graduating students with shared interests in issues surrounding social injustice were awarded commissions, which aimed to bridge the gaps between graduation and career launch. Through the commissioning process, the young people built connections with the University of Salford Art Collection and were supported through mentorship with Gwen Riley Jones.
The three artists each developed a body of work in response to both Easton’s work, and the concerns most important to them as individuals.
BA(Hons) Fine Art Graduate Zan Atkinson used photography and installation to explore themes of homeownership and renting, particularly in response to the Section 21 Notice allowing private landlords to issue no-fault evictions.
BA(Hons) Photography Graduate Helen Constantinou used the opportunity to work with female tradespeople. Constantinou captured images of the women at work, exploring gender bias in the construction industry.
BA(Hons) Photography Graduate David Hiney explored the North West’s industrial heritage by capturing Bank Hall, the site of a former coal mine which had provided work to the local communities for 111 years before it was closed in 1971.
The commissioned work was presented as part of Is Anybody Listening? in Salford, alongside the award-winning work by Craig Easton. The work was also showcased at the final stage of the exhibition tour at Williamson Art Gallery & Museum.
Student Micro Commission Opportunity: Is Anybody Listening: Our Time, Our Place
Is Anybody Listening? at The University of Salford.
Exhibition Handout: Is Anybody Listening? at The University of Salford, 2023
Is Anybody Listening? Our Time, Our Place is presented by the University of Salford and generously supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.