14/10/2024
Discover The Skinningrove Suite, a powerful collection of ten etchings by artist Kane Cunningham, inspired by his profound exploration of the Land of Iron in Skinningrove. Nearly four decades after his initial encounters with the area, Cunningham returns to delve into its rich history, documenting the stories of the mines, the community, and the lives shaped by the iron industry.
Drawing from a vast archive of photographs, videos, and artefacts, Cunningham captures the essence of a once-thriving village now marred by the closure of its mines and the towering blast furnace that loomed overhead. His work reflects the deep emotional, social, and financial impact these closures had on the community—on families, friendships, and the very fabric of society.
The etchings in this suite are not only a testament to the landscape shaped by natural and industrial forces over millennia, but also a visceral response to the history he uncovered. Each piece embodies the artist's journey of emotional and physical expression, translating his feelings of anger and loss into a series of intricate artworks. The etching process—through the techniques of drilling, gouging, and scraping—mirrors the miners' toil, while the hand-pressed prints replicate the very topography of the landscape, creating a tangible connection to the past.
Cunningham’s work offers insights and perspectives on the narratives of the archive, providing a form of emotional closure for the artist, who reflects on the questions and feelings he grappled with as a young man. The Skinningrove Suite serves as a poignant exploration of history, memory, and the enduring impact of industrial change, making it an essential addition for collectors and art enthusiasts alike., The Skinningrove Suite, Set of Ten Limited Edition Etchings at https://wix.to/rTJ5TH2
