RSA: New Works

The New Works Exhibition presents the work of five very different contemporary artists. So different, in fact, that with such distinct styles one often feels that as they walk from one artist’s corner to another they are entering a completely separate exhibition. Some may find this disconcerting; a little untogether, perhaps, but is arguably all the more engaging as the viewer is forced to consider the inter-relationships of diverse works within a limited space.

While Becky Šik’s obscure sculpture may leave you searching for deeper meaning in its structure (at first glance it looks not unlike corrugated cardboard), Anthony Schrag’s photography and multimedia works inject an endearing element of humour. His short film 'Health and Safety', wherein the artist climbs, hangs from and clambers over town council signs and lampposts evokes the viewer to drift back to their childhood when it was acceptable to endanger oneself in simply 'having fun'.

Both Frank Pottinger, with his organic and raw pieces from the Isle of Lewis, and Patricia Cain’s large scale depictions of more industrial structures remind us to observe the smaller details in places we may not usually look. Cain’s intelligent use of colour in Highlights and Reflections is particularly appealing. Similarly, James Lumsden’s use of neon and pastel blues and greens create haunting and elegant images as part of his Liquid Light sequence.

Well worth a visit, the New Works exhibition is a ringing testimony to the diversity of contemporary art currently being made in Scotland.