Featuring an exclusive presentation by Turner Prize nominee Spartacus Chetwynd, a British artist known for reworkings of iconic moments from cultural history in spontaneous and improvisatory performances.
An unique collection of paintings, photographs and other creative works will be on display at Victoria’s SW1 Gallery between December 3rd and 8th. The (invitation only) Private View on December 5th will feature a bespoke presentation and discussion about her work by Turner Prize nominee Spartacus Chetwynd.
The exhibition will showcase the talents of ex-servicemen and women who have been helped by thecharity Veterans Aid. It will be augmented by contributions from other veterans and a variety of other well-known supporters. The ‘Art of Survival’ catalogue can be found here.
For 80 years Veterans Aid has been helping former service personnel in crisis. Many have been homeless, battled with addiction, depression, debt and legal problems. The charity’s outstanding success in this area was formally recognised in 2011 when it received The Institute for Turnaround Award, but its real achievements are measured in terms of the numbers it helps through detox, depression and despair and on to employment, education and sustainable lifestyles.
CEO Dr Hugh Milroy said, “No-one comes to Veterans Aid unless they are desperate and in real crisis. Many are without hope and see us as their last chance. But every day we turn lives around, and this exhibition is a tribute to those who have found a path back to stability through art.”
The gallery is owned by Land Securities. Victoria Business Improvement District (VBID) brokered the exhibition.
Gallery Curator Owen Ward who has been mentoring some of the Veterans Aid artists said “This is a great opportunity for all the veterans taking part to have their works exhibited in a professional gallery and to tell their stories. I’m hoping this event will boost confidence and be the start of something special. It’s important that the excellent work and support that Veterans Aid gives is recognised in the wider community.”
Some of the artwork will be for sale with proceeds going directly to the veterans, enabling them to buy new materials, or to the charity. Other items will be loaned by professional artists and photographers who empathise with the charity’s work and/or who have been closely involved with it.
“This isn’t about raising money though,” said Dr Milroy, “it is about using art to make people visible. “Some very striking pieces are being prepared for this exhibition and I know just how much they mean to the men and women who have produced them.”
Admission to the exhibition will be free but sponsorship is being actively sought for framing of exhibits and production of catalogues.
