Exhibitions & Events

Permanent Collection - Displayed across 15 galleries The Manchester Museum’s worldwide collection encompasses both the natural sciences and the humanities. Itis home to one of the largest and most important collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the United Kingdom. The Vivarium is home to our chameleon, frogs, toads, snakes and other reptiles and amphibians. The highlight of the pre-historic gallery is the T.rex, displayed alongside rare examples of fossils dating back to the Ice Age. Other star attractions include the tiger, lion and polar bear.

Finding Manchester, Lost In Bolivia - 4 September 2010 – 30 January 2011 The discovery of a village called Manchester on a post-war Russian air map, led photographers Liz Peel and Chris Smith on a three month journey of discovery through South America. Canoeing along the Rio Manuripi river in the Bolivian Amazon, negotiating tropical storms and eating piranha fish, the photographers reached the small village, home to less than thirty families living in huts around a football pitch. Named Manchester, the village was founded in the late 1800’s when Anthony Webster-James - a young Mancunian engineer - moved there to set up a rubber smelting plant in the height of South America’s rubber boom. This photographic exhibition follows their amazing journey to find Manchester deep in the jungle.

China: Journey To The East - 25 September 2010 – 26 June 2011 A British Museum Tour supported by BP, a CHINA NOW legacy project

Encounter artefacts from one of the most important and influential civilisations in world history, in this major exhibition on tour from the British Museum.

China: Journey to the East spans 3,000 years of Chinese history and culture, exploring themes of play and performance, technology, belief and festivals, food and drink, and language and writing.

China has been a major influence on many parts of the world through trade and the movement of peoples. Chinese Diaspora communities form a vital part of the history of many other countries, including Britain.

This unique exhibition features objects from the British Museum alongside photos and mementoes of modern day Wuhan, Manchester's sister city in China.

Animal Life 1 Gallery - Closing 6 September 2010, re-opening April 2011 The Museum’s popular Animal Life 1 gallery will be closing in September 2010 to make way for fantastic new exhibits, celebrating biodiversity and using the animals to address issues such as habitat loss, extinction and climate change. Working with fashion events company, Villa Eugénie, visitors can expect the new gallery to look spectacular. It will focus on bringing out the current gallery’s best features, with more of the original architecture being revealed and a greater display of the Museum’s stuffed animals. Particular favourites such as the Sperm Whale skeleton, Polar Bear and Tiger will certainly be included. Re-opening in April 2011 the new gallery – Living Planet – will reveal how we are all part of the natural world and how we can make a positive difference.

Family Activities: All family activities are FREE and suitable for all ages unless otherwise stated. To book for events, please ring 0161 275 2648

In Touch – Daily Every day between 11am and 3pm you can visit one of our handling tables. You can get hands-on with objects from the collection, such as an armadillo shell, an Alexander the Great coin, a whale’s tooth and ancient Egyptian amulets (objects intended to bring good luck and/or protection to their owner).

Play + Learn Daily- A dedicated space for children and their families to read, draw and relax on their visit to the Museum.

Blackwell's Family Backpacks – Daily Borrow one of our family backpacks jammed with games and activities to do in the galleries. A range of contents make them suitable for all ages.

Discovery Centre - Daily, 11am-4pm Drop into the Discovery Centre for drawing and other art activities inspired by the Museum's collection and pick up one of our free Museum activity sheets.

Magic Carpet: Chinese Moon Festival - Friday 24 September, 11am-12pm Book on 0161 275 2648 (from 17 Sep), £1 per child, under 5s and their families/carers - Get comfy on our magic carpet and enjoy stories and activities. Part of the Museum’s China: Journey to the East exhibition.

Big Saturday Chinese Moon Festival - Saturday 25 September, 11am-4pm Most activities are free and drop-in. Some activities may need to be booked on the day and may cost up to £1.50. All ages Celebrate Chinese Moon Festival with hands-on activities, experts and object handling at the Museum and The Whitworth Art Gallery. Part of the Museum’s China: Journey to the East exhibition.

Adult Events

A History of the World mini tour - Monday 6 September, 12.30-1pm Drop-in, free, adults and older children - Unravel the stories behind objects we have chosen for A History of the World (a partnership between the British Museum, the BBC and museums across the UK).

Life in China - Tuesday 21 September, 12.45-1.30pm Book on 0161 275 2648, free, adults and older children. Part of a series of talks by The Confucius Institute. At each talk you can learn two Chinese characters and one useful phrase or sentence. Part of our China: Journey to the East exhibition.

The Manchester Museum, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL.

T: (0)161 275 2634 F: (0)161 275 2676 http://www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Open: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday, Monday and Bank Holidays 11am – 4pm with FREE ENTRY

Inner lives:unguarded moments figurative art exhibition

Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal - Sugar Store Gallery

Friday 3 September – Monday 11 October

Susie Mendelsson is a painter and artist who is fascinated by the human figure. She has lived and worked in Warwickshire since completing an MA in Art at Coventry University in 2001. She has exhibited both nationally and internationally. Her solo show at Brewery Arts draws on work from 1999 to the present day.

Susie is intrigued by the masks we wear to hide our innermost thoughts and fears. Inspired by myth and folk tales, her paintings tell stories of the hidden worlds and vulnerabilities that we reveal in unguarded moments.

"The way people look, move and behave fascinates me. They are like unwritten books which reflect their life’s journey, their struggles, and the vulnerabilities which lie behind the mask. I can watch people for hours, inventing stories about them. Like made-up fairy tales, but with the real characters in front of me."

As a figurative artist inspired by the German Expressionists, her goal is always to focus on internal feelings rather than anatomical accuracy.

At first sight these inner lives can appear ugly or even violent, but she manages to find beauty in these expressions of basic humanity.

Much of Susie’s work is motivated by an exploration of personal memories and the expression of psychological states of trauma and anxiety. Though the sources of her imagery are often autobiographical, her work communicates universal concerns and emotions, especially from a woman’s perspective.

"There are times in my life when I have felt small and insignificant. But I want to have power and be in control of my life, so I try to free myself of this smallness and the restrictions of what is expected of me. So I paint."

You can see much of Susie’s work on her website: http://www.susiemendelsson.co.uk

Susie’s exhibition preview takes place at 6pm on Friday 3 September.

Brewery Arts Centre: http://www.breweryarts.co.uk

Treasure Hunt to encourage giving, Found a Pound

Found a Pound is a creative treasure hunt to find hundreds or maybe thousands of pound coins hidden in art galleries and public spaces during the 2010 Liverpool Biennial.

The Biennial is the largest contemporary visual arts event in the UK, and one of the best attended in the world with 975,000 visits for the last event. Running, this year, from the 18th of September until the 28th November.

Artist and Found a Pound creator Rowan Seddon-Harvey says “The project aims to encourage giving and we will start by giving to YOU, British £1 coins. All you have to do is find them." Register on http://www.foundapound.com/find-a-pound.php and be the first to receive a set of clues.

Each coin has a sticker directing finders to http://www.foundapound.com/ where visitors will find imaginative ways on how a simple pound coin can be used to make a real difference. “Don’t know your neighbours? Buy them a pound of sugar!”

Why a pound? Nearly a quarter of the worlds population lives on a pound a day or less. Spend the pound on anything at all, a cup of tea, a bar of chocolate or drop it in the hat of a busker. Although it's just small change, you could use it to make a bigger change.

Lose a few pounds by finding some pounds. "Our Gallery Walking Tour is a fantastic way to lose weight whilst seeing great art and hunting down our pound coins." Register on http://www.foundapound.com/lose-it.php and receive a free printable guide, including a map with the best route for fitness, clues to help you find the pounds and information on the artists and exhibitions. Fitness gifts will also be hidden along the way to give you an extra boost.

http://www.foundapound.com/free-stickers.php for a free sticker sheet. Stick them on your own coins and pop to the shops with some art in your pocket, or organise a set of clues to create your own Find a Pound treasure hunt.

Contact: Rowan Seddon-Harvey rowan@rowansh.com

Pictures That Tell Stories Exhibition, Zion Arts Centre

6th – 18th September

Monday-Friday 5pm-9pm, Saturdays 10-4pm

Free entry!

Photographer Jennifer Kay has been working alongside children from St. Mary’s, St. Philip’s, Roll’s Crescent and Webster primary schools on a project which encourages the children to explore their own memories and experiences using photography. ‘Pictures That Tell Stories’ is the proud culmination of this work in a touching and insightful exhibition.

The children were encouraged to bring in old photographs and objects from home that tell a story, then to talk to their families about their own memories of growing up. They then recorded their lives for a week in the form of photo diaries, learning about how photographs can really help shape our experiences and memories and picking up some valuable skills along the way!

The resulting exhibition is outstanding!

Zion Arts, 335 Stretford Road, Manchester M15 5ZA

0161 226 1912

http://www.zionarts.com/

A New Sense of Emptiness, Mario Sughi, 9 Sept - 23 Oct, Blank Media Collective

If you are suffering from post holiday blues then let Blank Media Collective banish them away, as they aim to keep the cold dreary Mancunian showers at bay by presenting the vibrant and contemporary work of Mario Sughi. Blank Media Collective’s new exhibition, A New Sense of Emptiness will transport you back to the lazy days of summer and make that transition to autumn that little bit easier.

A New Sense of Emptiness signals the start of Blank Media Collective’s exciting new Exhibitions Programme (2010-12) at greenroom, as they plan to showcase the best emerging talents from throughout the UK. Blank Media Collective are setting the standards high by exhibiting the cutting edge work of Mario Sughi, an Italian artist and illustrator based in Dublin. It is clear to see Blank Media Collective is starting their residency in high style and with an abundance of energy, aiming to produce a contemporary platform for the North West.

A New Sense of Emptiness opens at greenroom, Manchester with a Public Preview and chance to meet the artist on Thursday 9 August (6-9pm).

The exhibition continues until Saturday 23 October.

For further information about A New Sense of Emptiness please visit:

http://www.blankmediacollective.org/anewsenseofemptiness

CHAOSMOSII Contemporary Art Exhibition Programme

Chaosmos is an arts initiative that aims to research and develop the production of an array of mixed media artwork, animations, video and live art. It is curated by Chris Boyd, the Lead Artist, and platforms a collection of international and renowned art in a unique exhibition that investigates turbulent visual planes within the conceptual framework of Chaosmos (a Joycean coinage).

The exhibition attempts to map meta-physical states, track intermittent interference whilst revealing a preoccupation with the creative process, pictorial puzzles and the integration of traditional artist techniques with current post production methods.

Curator: Chris Boyd (Lead Artist)

Artists: Chris Boyd; Megan Chapman; Gordon Cheung; Mat Collishaw; Peter Eramian; C. James Fagan; Steven Heaton; Maggie Lambert; Lady Lillith Leveigh; Zan Lyons; Ashleigh Nankivell; David Ogle; Jonas Pihl; James Roper; Boo Saville; Masahiro Tomioka; Jane Ward; Boris Zakic and others.

Writers: Peter Eramian; Penny Goring; Nina Miall; Kenji Siratori; Sam Skinner; Suzie Saw and others.

Chaosmos 2010 (Independents Liverpool Biennial 2010):

View Two Gallery, 23 Mathew Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, UK.

w: http://www.viewtwogallery.co.uk

Gallery open times: Thursday – Friday 12.00 pm – 4.00 pm, Saturday 12.00 pm – 5.00 pm.

Viewing can be arranged by appointment for Sunday – Wednesday by contacting the Curator.

Exhibition: Tuesday 07 September 2010 – Saturday 02 October 2010

Private View: Thursday 09 September 2010, 7.30 pm - 10.30 pm.

VJ Performances / Screenings: (TBC) Thursday 16 September 2010, 7.30 pm - 10.30 pm & Friday 17 September 2010, 7.30 pm - 10.30 pm.

Artist Talks (in association with Culture Pool): Saturday 18 September 2010, 1.00 pm - 3.00 pm.

Contact: Chris Boyd (Curator / Lead Artist)

E-mail: boydism@hotmail.com Mobile: +44(0)77 919 52 113

Website: http://www.qboyd.com

Blog: http://www.chrisboydism.blogspot.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Chris.Boyd.Contemporary.Artist

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/boydism08

Altered States: where science meets art

Waterside Art Gallery

Sat 23 Oct – Sat 8 Jan 2011, FREE

Altered States seeks to uncover the ways in which contemporary artists have been inspired by historical, current and future developments in bio-medical research and the impact science has had and is having on cultural and human endeavour.

Featuring a range of artistic practice including installation and wall based work; artists will explore the importance of cultural references such as Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’ to current concerns regarding genetics, medicine, reproduction, anatomy, mortality and longevity.

There will be a series of related events and talks taking place during November and December.

This exhibition has been organised to coincide with Manchester Science Festival.

Manchester Science Festival - 23 – 31 October

Expect a vibrant and packed program of events for families, schools, young people and adults. Find out more at:

http://www.manchestersciencefestival.com

Please note: The Gallery Bar is occasionally used for private functions – please ring in advance to check opening house – 0161 912 5616

Waterside Arts Centre, 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, M33 7ZF

Tickets & Info 0161 912 5616

http://www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Lets Go Global presents Empowering Communities Through New Technology – Pixelate 2006-10

Waterside Art Gallery

Sat 18 Sept – Sat 16 Oct, FREE

The Pixelate exhibition marks a milestone in community media development across Greater Manchester. Working with a wealth of local and regional video artists, script writers, drama artists, animators and photographers the local communities of Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Salford, Stockport, Rochdale, Tameside and Wigan have developed their own digital content, telling their own stories and broadcasting these globally through the use of new technology.

The exhibition features documentary video, portrait photography, visual projections, short films and animation all made by the varied communities of Greater Manchester. The exhibition also showcases work by a range of digital artists, photographers, script writers and animators who were involved in delivering the projects including Richard Ramchurn, Johan Oldekop, Mat Johns, Kim Wiltshire, Andy Sykes, Luke Marsh, The Box TV & Peopleprint. Lets Go Global are a creative media organisation in the heart of Old Trafford and form part of Trafford Council.

For more information see http://www.letsgoglobal.tv or http://www.pixelate.org.uk, call Sarah on 0161 8505555 or email sarah@letsgoglobal.tv

Waterside Arts Centre, 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, M33 7ZF

Tickets & Info 0161 912 5616

http://www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Sallow Tree Concerts presents Chamber Music Gems

Waterside Arts Centre

Wed 29 Sept, 7:30pm, £10/£8

A brand new concerts series, which gives you the opportunity to hear some of the finest chamber music in an intimate setting. Come and listen to the glorious Clarinet Quintet K581 by Mozart. Next is Borodin’s ever-popular Second String Quartet, made famous by its beautiful and well-known third movement: Nocturne, used in the musical Kismet. Finally, a rare and exciting chance to see eight professional string players, let by BBC Philharmonic’s sub principle, Kevin Flynn, perform the magnificent Mendelssohn Octet Op.120

Waterside Arts Centre, 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, M33 7ZF

Tickets & Info 0161 912 5616

http://www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

The Artists' Wakes - Bury Art Gallery

12 - 4pm, Saturday 4th September 2010

The Artists Lottery Syndicate, BMCA, Chris and Kier, Contents May Vary, An Endless Supply, Mark Essen, Steve Hunt, The Invisible Committee Prestwich and Whitefield Branch, Lee Joss, El Leon, Malgras|Naudet, M. Institute, The Provincial Forge, Societe Realiste, Symbol Archive, Penny Whitehead & Daniel Simpkins

During the industrial revolution the tradition of the wakes took on a new importance as workers closed the mills in each town across Lancashire so they could take an annual holiday, with or without the permission of the mill owners. Borrowing its name from that lost history The Artists' Wakes celebrates the power of collective and collaborative practices in our own precarious times. Increasing numbers of artists are choosing to get rid of themselves, favoring an us instead of a me, and in doing so are asking questions about the very nature of thing they are engaging in, finding a power in unity just like the cotton workers.

For one afternoon in September at the Bury Art Gallery in Greater Manchester, a selection of artists whose practices engage in such approaches will come together to present their work. A cross section of activity has been drawn from as far away as Mexico and as close as Whitefield. Each group’s practice realises a very different vision, tackling ideas ranging from the social and political through institutional critique to the jocose; it is not the form or content of the work that connects these projects but a belief in the possibility of what can happen when we work together.

Bury Art Gallery, Moss Street, Bury, Lancashire BL9 0DF 0161 253 5878

Contact: magnus_quaife@yahoo.co.uk

Bridgewater Community Concerts at The Waterside

FREE lunchtime concerts

Corus Brass Ensemble

Sat 11 Sept, 1:00pm, FREE

The Bridgewater Hall presents a series of live, free lunchtime concerts in venues across Greater Manchester.

Join us for an hour, as part of Waterside Arts Centre’s Open day, to enjoy a solo presentation of bassoon and spoken word inspired by the British countryside, an exuberant set of your favourite 1920s/30s tunes, and a lively jazz quintet.

Waterside Arts Centre, 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, M33 7ZF

Tickets & Info 0161 912 5616

http://www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Inclusion

8th and 9th October 2010

10am – 4pm

Minster Church, Church Street, Preston

FREE ADMISSION

On 26 September 2009, we held our first art exhibition, which we called ‘’Inclusion’’, to highlight the creative talents of those suffering with mental health difficulties. We had in the region of 100 exhibitors from approximately 20 hospitals and community resources across Lancashire, as well as individual artists. Those taking part suffered with a range of mental problems with some well on the road to recovery and others requiring 24 hour support at hospitals and rehabilitation units.

Such was the success of last year’s event we immediately booked the same venue for 2010 and this year’s event is set to be bigger and better, spanning 2 days, with more exhibitors and interactive workshops involving art, poetry and drama for both adults and children.

Not only does it highlight the hidden talents and creativity of those suffering from mental illnesses and demonstrate how art and creativity have helped them in their battle to recover, but it is also central to our campaign to stop the stigma and prejudice behind mental illness.

We are delighted that this year’s event coincides with the “Time to Get Moving” week which runs across the country from 9th to 17th October. It is being launched by the Time to Change charity which is supported by Stephen Fry, Ruby Wax and Frank Bruno who have personal experience of the difficulties of dealing with mental health.

There will be the opportunity for socialising as getting to know people on an equal basis helps to stop prejudices by making others aware of how common these illnesses are and how anyone can become a victim.

‘’Inclusion’’ takes place on 8th and 9th October 2010 at the Minster Church, Church Street, Preston. Admission is free. Refreshments are available all day.

For more information please contact Philippa Curran or Rachael Tyrer at odonnells solicitors 01772 881000 or visit our website at http://www.odonnells-solicitors.co.uk

CHEW THE FLOAT exhibition at Victoria Baths, Manchester, Cottonopolis collective

Cottonopolis Arts Collective host their first exhibition at the Great Victoria Baths. We are a non-profit arts organisation.

Over 30 North West Artists working in print, textiles, installation, video, animation, craft, painting, sculpture are to be exhibited at Victoria baths.

Cottonopolis Arts Collective host their first exhibition at the Great Victoria Baths. We are a non-profit arts organisation.

Working site specifically and within the context of the history and the people of the place. This exhibition is a celebration of swimming and the work made is in admiration for the decor and for the beauty that the baths beholds.

Venue- Victoria Baths, Hathersage Rd, Chorlton-on-Medlock, Manchester, M13 0FE

Preview - Fri 3rd September, 5pm-8

Open times - Sat 4th Sept- Sunday 5th Sept, 12-4pm

(Sun,£2- featuring The Ordsall Acapella Singers)

Mon 6th - Thursday 9th, 4.30pm-6.30pm

Fri 10th -Sun 12th, 11am-5pm

(Group Visits by arrangement at other times)

Contact- cottonopoliscollective@yahoo.com

Radical new contemporary arts exhibition, North By North Western

You Say Tomato, I Say Tomato is an inventive new exhibition of audio, video and sculptural works in Wigan, Greater Manchester.

This is the second year the curators, Nathalie Boobis & Anna FC Smith, have worked on such a project as part of NXNW Arts Festival (http://www.nxnwfestival.co.uk).

Their aim is to achieve the same high standard of work, eminence of artists, and strength of concept as any major gallery show. You Say Tomato, I Say Tomato is an exploration of the mechanisms of spoken language. The game of language is played out on a giant chessboard constructed on the floor of an old mill building and, amongst others, features the work of British artist, Simon Morse, and a live daily internet performance between French artist, Annie Abrahams and German experimental musician, Antye Greie.

The exhibition is open from 7th August until 3rd September from 12-6pm every day except Monday.

We are situated in Wigan in a warehouse that is part of Eckersley Mill. The address is: Unit 9, Eckersley Mill, Swan Meadow Road, Wigan, WN3 5BD.

XTRAX at Mintfest International Arts Festival, Kendal, UK, XTRAX

2nd- 5th September 2010

Mintfest is one of the UK's leading outdoor performance festivals, offering promoters and programmers a unique opportunity to see the very best contemporary international street arts in the beautiful Lake District town of Kendal.

Over 50 promoters and programmers from all over Europe (Spain, France, Portugal, Belgium and the Netherlands) have already registered for Mintfest this year. Registration is free. If you haven’t already registered and would like to attend visit: http://www.xtrax.org.uk/showcase_mintfest_overview

As a registered professional you will receive priority booking for ticketed shows, an invitation to the Drinks reception on Friday 3rd September at 6.45pm, you will have the opportunity to join us for the international panel discussion and networking events and you will receive the XTRAX Book, a guide to all companies programmed during the showcase. You are also invited to join us on a boat trip on the Lake Windermere on Friday afternoon and for a glass of cava in between shows on Saturday evening.

Visit Mintfest programme here: http://www.xtrax.org.uk/showcase_mintfest_programme

2010 Highlights include

- Night time shows from leading international companies: Atempo Circ (Spain) View Video Trailer (Fira Tarrega 2009) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5czBx2UIXw, Commandos Percu (France), Tuig (Netherlands)

- New commissions from Without Walls, a consortium of the UK’s leading street arts festivals: Akademi View Video Trailer for Sufi:Zen: http://www.youtube.com/v/xDQLj9vAzIQ&hl=en_GB&fs=1&%22%3E%3C/param%3E%3Cparam , Kuljit Bahmra’s Chutney, Motionhouse View Video preview http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJhkvjQxvNE and Pen-Ultimate

- New shows from Banc Public (France), Frolicked (UK), Ponten Pie (Spain), Luc Amoros (France) and more.

Hotels and Travel information http://www.xtrax.org.uk/showcase_mintfest_travel Accommodation is very limited during this period as Kendal is a tourist destination and this weekend is part of the holiday season so we advise that you book immediately.

We hope to see you in kendal!

http://www.xtrax.org.uk

info@xtrax.org.uk

0161 227 8383

Infinite Strokes: Chinese Ink Painting - Chinese Arts Centre

Mary Tang & Cathy Wu

Preview Night: Thursday, 19th August 2010

Exhibition Dates: 20 August – 18 September 2010

Chinese Arts Centre pays tribute to two artists, Mary Tang and Cathy Wu, who have shown commitment to the Centre over the last 20 years. Both artists have worked as workshop leaders for the Centre but are also accomplished ink brush painting and calligraphy artists in their own right.

Cathy Wu (Chinese name Yat Ming Ho) was born in Sichuan, Chengdu and brought up in Hong Kong. She studied Chinese calligraphy under Master calligrapher and painter Lin Chien Shi in Hong Kong.

She has exhibitions in Hong Kong, London, Manchester, Liverpool and Wirral, where she has given talks and workshops in galleries, museums, schools and colleges. In 2007, she was commissioned to write ‘The Chinese Calligraphy Sourcebook’ which was published by Apple Press in Britain; ‘The Chinese Calligraphy Bible’ by Barrons in the US, and by Simon and Schuster in Australia. Last year in June, in order to commemorate their late calligraphy Master, Lin Chien Shi, she and her friends organized a joint exhibition in Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden in Vancouver. In 2010, Cathy was invited to hold calligraphy workshops at the Victoria Gallery and Museum of Liverpool University, the Liverpool Museum and was also involved with the Radio Merseyside, Up for Arts project.

Mary Tang (Chinese name Xue Yin Tang) was born in Shanghai and raised in China. She was taught calligraphy by her mother, Liang Wei Yan, a noted Chinese calligrapher.

Whilst studying at the Teacher Training College in Shanghai, Mary was taught Chinese painting by the artist, Lu Shi Hao, who in turn was a student of the renowned Chen Shifa. After qualifying from college, Mary spent twenty-five years teaching in a variety of schools around Shanghai. Mary moved to the UK in 1987, since then, she has taught many of the traditional skills of China, including painting, paper cutting, calligraphy, as well as mask and lantern making and crafts in schools, colleges and universities.

This summer exhibition profiles their work and celebrates this unique traditional Chinese art form, which is technically demanding requiring great skill, concentration and years of training.

During the exhibition period Chinese Arts Centre will be organising free workshops and demonstrations. Mary Tang and Cathy Wu will be leading workshops in brush painting and calligraphy.

Mary Tang

Date: Saturday 28 August

For families and children: 10am – 11:45am

For Adults: 1pm – 3:15pm

Cathy Wu

Date: Saturday 4 September

For families and children: 10am – 11:45am

For Adults: 1pm – 3:15pm

Bookings can be made via the links below:

Families and children Tickets – http://infinitestrokes.eventbrite.com/

Adult Tickets – http://infinitestrokes2.eventbrite.com/

Market Buildings, Thomas Street, Manchester, M4 1EU

t: +44 (0) 161 832 7271 f: +44 (0) 161 832 7513

http://www.chinese-arts-centre.org

Roxana Allison: Becoming a Memory, Untitled Gallery

Untitled Gallery presents Becoming a Memory, a new exhibition of works by Manchester-based photographer Roxana Allison. Becoming a Memory explores the impermanence of memory when confronted with places which are at once both familiar and strange, where traces of self are discovered in the contours of the cityscape, a space imbued with memories, desires, and illusions.

As she wanders the city, the artist is open to a world of chance encounters triggered by the spaces and places of the city, a web of decaying memories and unconscious desires. In Becoming a Memory the ephemera of the city evoke a longing to return to childhood surroundings, a past revisited through the act of traversing the streets of Manchester:

Becoming a Memory is an ongoing body of work that explores my surroundings as I resettle in the city I was born in and migrated from over 20 years ago. Upon my return just over a year ago and still feeling like an outsider, I have become aware of many changes, such as places that once were but are no longer. This project responds to the constant need to remind myself about my roots and the place I once belonged to. These images will become my memory in a more tangible form as time moves on and will always be within reach, whenever I feel like going back in time...

The themes of absence and presence are explored by the artist through the act of photographing areas of Manchester that enable her to retain and re-enact distant memories, resulting in a city becoming a memory.

Manchester-born Roxana Allison studied at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), where she received her (BA) Fine Art in 2004. Roxana resided in Mexico City until 2008, when she returned to Manchester.

Becoming a Memory Saturday 14th August - Sunday 26th September 2010

Preview: Friday 13th August 2010 6 - 9pm

http://www.untitledgallerymanchester.com

Liberty Festival

4 September, Trafalgar Square, London, 1pm

The Liberty Festival is an annual event at Trafalgar Square, celebrating the contribution of Deaf and disabled people to London’s culture.

Sports and Arts

Working with visual artist Rachel Gadsden and Wheelpower from Stoke Mandeville, an area celebrating collaboration between sport and the arts.

Aerial Zone

A programme of aerial and circus performances, including Amici Dance Theatre and Cirque Nova.

Street Arts

A programme of performances including Kazzum, Epic Arts, Rhinestone Rollers and Chutney.

Children’s Zone

This year’s activities will have an “up in the air' theme with an Icarus character helping participants to harness the power of the wind as they enter a 'Windy Wonderland” area of wind machines, fabric and sound. The Children’s Zone will also include installation work by disabled artists from Arteast. Curated by Emergency Exit Arts.

Cabaret and Comedy

A cabaret and comedy programme will take place in a dome tent programmed by Hazel Humphreys. Proposed artists include Francesca Martinez, Steve Day, Liz Carr, Mat Fraser, Cooltan Poets and Keith Currie.

Music

A music stage at the foot of Nelson’s Column with performances by Yunioshi and Orpheus Centre plus three exciting young bands produced by Heart 'n Soul - The Fish Police, KDNA and Lizzie Emeh. Also extracts from Reasons to be Cheerful; Graeae’s new musical theatre production set during a time of political change with Ian Dury’s songs providing a powerful emotional backdrop.

Everyone is welcome and everything has been organised to be accessible and inclusive. Programme may be subject to change. Look out for further updates in July and August.

Free parking nearby for blue badge holders (bookable in advance only, by email)

liberty@london.gov.uk

http://www.london.gov.uk

Pioneering Visual Arts Programme

DASH, in partnership with The New Art Gallery Walsall, Oriel Davies Gallery, Mid Wales, and Wolverhampton Art Gallery publicly launch a programme of visual arts residencies, called Outside IN, at an event on

Thursday 16 September at 1pm at The New Art Gallery Walsall.

DASH’s Mike Layward introduces the artists: Sean Burn, Noëmi Lakmaier and the Disabled Avant Garde (Katherine Araniello and Aaron Williamson).

This is followed by an exclusive ‘in conversation’ between Bobby Baker and Sean Burn.

Find out more at http://www.dasharts.org/outsidein

The Perfect Gallery, CUBE – Christian Jankowski

30/7/10 - 11/09/10

We are delighted to announce CUBE’s new transformation into a television programme, sculpture and art video courtesy of international artist Christian Jankowski. This major exhibition, “The Perfect Gallery”, is based on the idea of translating a television format into the art world and vice versa and will be launching at CUBE this summer.

When asked about “The Perfect Gallery”, Jankowski states: “When I was asked to make an exhibition for the space I had in mind the fact that gallery architecture is often talked about more than the art inside it.”

To celebrate the exhibition, CUBE has invited award winning architect Stephen Hodder to talk for the first time about the design and process of making their version of a perfect gallery.

Event:

Stephen Hodder presents CUBE

Award winning architect, Stephen Hodder, will giving a fascinating insight into the architecture of CUBE Gallery.

6-8pm, Thursday 19th August

Admission free, booking required: info@cube.org.uk

113 - 115 Portland Street, Manchester, M1 6DW

http://www.cube.org.uk/

Northern Futures 2010 Awards ~ Exhibition, Barnsley Civic

Wednesday 28 July – Friday 3 September

Northern Futures is a new, annual art & design prize hosted by The Civic.

The prize has been set up to both recognise and reward the best emerging creative talent in the North of England. Each year, Northern Futures will focus on four specialist areas of art and design and for this inaugural year, 2010, the categories selected are:

Fine Art, 3D Design, Fashion, Film

The prize was open to all artists. Designers, and film makers aged between 21-40 born, living of working in the North of England. The winners of each category receive a £1,500 cash prize, whilst the two runners up in each category receive a £250 cash prize. To determine the winners, each of the four categories were independently judged by a panel made up from leading industry champions, this exhibition showcases the prize winning work from the four categories, and celebrates the diverse and creative talent which is Northern Futures.

Free Daily Admission

10am-5pm, 10am-4pm(Sundays)

The Civic, Hanson Street, Barnsley, S70 2HZ

Contact: David Sinclair enquiries@barnsleycivic.co.uk / 01226 327000

http://www.barnsleycivic.co.uk/

Angle of Refraction | Gareth Hacking | Mark Devereux

greenroom, Manchester | Wednesday 4 August – Saturday 4 September 2010

[Public Preview Thursday 5 August, 6-9pm]

The discipline of photography is constantly evolving and in greenroom’s new exhibition, Angle of Refraction we are taken to see exciting advances that push this art form to new extremes. Blank Media Collective are curating this exhibition to showcase the work of Gareth Hacking and Mark Devereux who create captivating and unique images using light and photography to produce abstract, painterly images.

Both artists create fascinating photographs which challenge the viewers perception. These images are shrouded with mystique, as the techniques are ambiguous to the spectator. On reflection both artists explore elements in their work, which are both spontaneous and controlled, making each piece an original that can never be replicated.

Gareth Hacking’s work comes from his ongoing series, The Colour of Light where he explores notions of process, repetition and movement to create images of beauty. Chance and interpretation are key concerns for Hacking as he puts his trust in his knowledge of light and the intrigue of the viewer. He describes this current work influenced more by ‘accident than design’ where he captures random processes of light waves.

“Using slow-shutter speeds and manipulation of the camera, I create abstract pieces of pure colour – the ordinary becomes extraordinary. Every image captured is unique and unrepeatable.” (Gareth Hacking)

In Mark Devereux’s new work, 36ACT the artist returns to his collection Alchemy (2004-10). Using imagery created in the early stages of this project, Devereux uses the technique of mark-making to both alter and develop works that explore notions of the sublime, cosmology and alchemy itself.

“My work explores the collision and cohesion between the boundaries of fine art, paint and photography. Taking inspiration from what we see around us and images from the media, the interpretation of my work becomes personal and discursive allowing interactions and engagement.” (Mark Devereux)

In reference to Deveveux’s practice he is acutely aware of his practice as being a combination of the technical procedures of photography and the conceptual influences of fine art. This creates tension in his work as he is challenging people’s preconceptions of the artist and photographer.

Angle of Refraction opens at greenroom, Manchester on Wednesday 4 August with the Public Preview and chance to meet the artists on Thursday 5 August (6-9pm). The exhibition continues until Saturday 4 September. For further information about Angle of Refraction please visit http://www.blankmediacollective.org/angleofrefraction

Men Of Cloth - Exhibition Launch

The Lauriston Gallery, Waterside Arts Centre

7 - 9pm, 2nd July 2010

All welcome.

You and your guests are warmly invited to the opening of the exhibition of textile work from artists Michael Brennand-Wood, Gavin Fry, Matthew Harris, James Hunting, Colin Jenkins and Kazuhito Takadoi.

If you wish to attend, then RSVP to watersideartscentre@trafford.gov.uk or call 0161 912 5616.

The exhibition runs from 3rd July - 4th September 2010. For more information, see

http://www.watersideartscentre.co.uk/Exhibitions.asp

Imperial War Museum North - Event Listings for Blind & Visually Impaired Visitors

August - November 2010

Introducing the Museum – Audio Described

Sundays 22nd August and 14th November - 1.30pm

Meet at the Tour Point in the foyer

A guide to the themes, history and design of the Museum suggesting ways of navigating this fascinating building and its varied displays.

In Focus - All Aboard: Stories of War at Sea – Audio Described

Sunday 22nd August - 2.15pm

Beginning with an object handling session, followed by a walk and talk on gallery looking at personal stories within the Main Exhibition Space relating to the war at sea and introducing our Special Exhibition, All Aboard: Stories of War at Sea.

In Focus: Remembrance – Audio Described

Sunday 14th November - 2.15pm

This gallery walk will explore an array of objects and stories related to Remembrance including the field gun that fired the first British shell of the First World War. Then it is your chance to discover the personal story of one fallen Salford soldier, including the opportunity to get hands on with fascinating personal artefacts, from the annotated bible he kept with him in the trenches to his final letter home.

TimeStack Handling Sessions

Main Exhibition Space - Daily 12.30pm, 3.30pm*

Join our Interactors for themed 20-minute object handling sessions. Discover life during the Blitz, how to live on a food ration or how to survive trench life during the First World War.

*Audio described at 3.30pm on 22nd August and 21st November

Big Picture Show

Main Exhibition Space - Daily - Every hour from 11am

The Big Picture, a dynamic 360 degrees multi-screen, surround-sound experience is among the highlights of this award-winning Museum. As the lights fade down, giant screens and powerful surround sounds immerse you in the heart of the action, creating a complete sensory experience which is totally involving, and often very moving.

Please note: the lights are turned down for the 15-20 minute duration of each show.

BSL signed and subtitled.

There are many more activities and tours that take place every day. To find out please go to our website for a full event listings http://www.iwm.org.uk/north

Imperial War Museum North are continually developing our staff and facilities to cater for your needs. Please check our web site for further details.

You can join our free mailing list or our monthly event email bulletin. http://www.patronmailuk.com/bnmailweb/PatronSetup?fid=131

Imperial War Museum North

Open 7 days a week from 10am - 6pm (Nov to Feb 10am - 5pm) with free admission. The Quays, Trafford Wharf Road, Trafford Park, Manchester

M17 1TZ (close to Harbour City Metrolink and Junction 9 of the M60)

T: 0161 836 4000 E: iwmnorth@iwm.org.uk http://www.iwm.org.uk

Imperial War Museum North - Event Listings for Deaf & Hearing Impaired Visitors

August - November 2010

Object handling sessions - Visitors of all ages can get involved.

TimeStack Handling Sessions*

Main Exhibition Space daily at 12.30pm and 3.30pm

A great opportunity to get hands-on with objects from Imperial War Museum’s collection in these themed 20-minute object-handling sessions. Join a member of staff for an opportunity to discover the stories behind the artefacts.

*BSL Signed at 3.30pm on Sundays 1st August and 7th November.

Free Themed Tours – Introducing the Museum*

Daily 11.30am and 1.30pm. Meet at the Tour Point in the Foyer

A guide to the themes, history and design of the Museum suggesting ways of navigating this fascinating building and its varied displays.

* BSL signed at 1.30pm on Sundays 1st August and 7th November.

In Focus Themed Events - In Focus - All Aboard: Stories of War at Sea - Sunday 1st August at 2.15pm. Meet at the Tour Point in the Foyer

* BSL signed at 2.15pm on Sunday 1st August.

In Focus: Remembrance - Sunday 7th November at 2.15pm. Meet at the Tour Point in the Foyer This gallery walk will explore an array of objects and stories related to Remembrance including the field gun that fired the first British shell of the First World War. Then it is your chance to discover the personal story of one fallen Salford soldier, including the opportunity to get hands on with fascinating personal artefacts, from the annotated bible he kept with him in the trenches to his final letter home.

*BSL signed at 2.15pm on Sunday 7th November.

Big Picture Show -Main Exhibition Space Daily Every Hour from 11am

The Big Picture” a dynamic 360 degrees multi-screen, surround-sound experience is among the highlights of this award-winning Museum. As the lights fade down, giant screens and powerful surround sounds immerse you in the heart of the action, creating a complete sensory experience which is totally involving, and often very moving.

Please note: the lights are turned down for the 15-20minute duration of each show.

Subtitled and BSL signed

There are many more activities and tours that take place every day. To find out please go to our web site for a full event listings http://www.iwm.org.uk

Imperial War Museum North are continually developing our staff and facilities to cater for your needs. Please check our web site for further details.

You can join our free mailing list or our monthly event email bulletin. http://www.patronmailuk.com/bnmailweb/PatronSetup?fid=131

Imperial War Museum North

Open 7 days a week from 10am - 6pm (Nov to Feb 10am - 5pm) with free admission

The Quays, Trafford Wharf Road, Trafford Park, Manchester M17 1TZ

(close to Harbour City Metrolink and Junction 9 of the M60)

T: 0161 836 4000 E: iwmnorth@iwm.org.uk http://www.iwm.org.uk

Tanya Raabe-Public’s choice portrait

'The Public’s Choice' is a chance for you to nominate either a disabled sports personality, or a disabled athlete or a disabled sports person, to have their portrait painted as part of the Revealing Culture: Head On collection. The criteria for your nominated person is that they identify themselves as a disabled person - you must state: Why you have nominated this person - What has this person done to develop disability sports within disability culture. Email me your nomination to info@tanyaraabe.co.uk http://www.facebook.com/tanya.raabe

www.flickr.com/photos/tanyaraabe/ http://revealingcultureheadon.wordpress.com/

There will be a Judging panel of art and cultural experts who will support me to pick the Public’s Choice Portrait. The Public’s Choice portrait will take place in a public live sitting in Tate Liverpool as part of DaDaFest International 10, November 2010.