Uncanny Playgrounds

6 Sugar House Lane, London, E15 2QS

PV: Thursday, 19th September, 6 – 9pm
Open: 20th September – 26th October 2024
Thursday – Sunday, 12 – 6pm

Uncanny Playgrounds is a two part exhibition presenting twenty-one emerging artists. Part 1 is curated by Ana Paola Flores, Part 2 by Bernice Lin, with Veronique Chen co-curating both parts.

Part one artists include Sandra Blow, Claudia Martignetti, Jeehee Kim, Lawrence Kirk, Minori Murata, Arabella Simpson, Xin Huang, Milly Aburrow, 32, Janice Kei, Tong Wu and Teddy Bear Making Workshop by ArtyMcFly.

Including the public programmes: DJ Set by Delirious Blanc at the Opening Preview.

A Teddy bear making workshop Sept 21st.

Performing artists and music collectives: Other dates: Everywhere is Haunted, Lisolotte Klint.

Part one selected works explore the intersection of childhood nostalgia and adult unease through a diverse array of mediums, including performances and music events. This exhibition is designed to be immersive, inclusive, and playful, offering an adult audience an opportunity to explore the complex emotions evoked by nostalgic playthings reimagined with an uncanny twist.

Sandra Blow’s work was added to MoMA’s permanent photography collection in New York this year, and this marks her first exhibition in London, UK.

Claudia Martignetti, another key artist in the exhibition, offers a thought-provoking perspective on the concept of nostalgia. She notes, “Nostalgia as a device in contemporary art is manipulative. It preys on one’s yearning, but at the same time is almost seductive in its familiarity. Nostalgia draws us to these ‘well-loved’ toys and characters. But when confronted with them as adults, we face a harsh reality: we cannot interact with them the same as we once could. After all, these playthings are created by adults for children, and in fact, reflect adult desires and ideas. These nostalgic play-objects serve as a reminder of the dissonance of trying to play as an adult.” 

Public Programme

‘TeddyLand’ is a unique teddy-making workshop where participants can create their dream teddy by combining parts from pre-loved teddies. With a wide selection of styles, characters, and sizes, their large-scale workshops offer an immersive, playful environment. This hands-on activity fosters textile skills and imagination, allowing participants to craft a unique, treasured fluffy friend. The process is therapeutic and ideal for group fun. The artist invites local audiences to donate soft toys, enhancing community participation. ‘TeddyLand’ also features a display of contributed teddies, deepening the communal art experience. Join them to create your one-of-a-kind teddy in this magical workshop!