(By Thom Bleasdale)
Damien Roach – Infra Lion
Arnolfini has invited Damien Roach to be in residence throughout 2012 in order to develop a new installation for the second of their commissions. This commission, which has been running since March, encroaches Arnolfini via its foyer, lifts, stairwell, lobby, and even its branding, Roach has developed a series of interventions that will unravel over the course of the year. Subtly shifting the fabric of the building, including surface textures, lighting, windows, scents, sounds and behaviours, mirages, mutations and recollections become the very material of the project. More info at www.arnolfini.org.uk
Mike Shevlin – Shapes & Shards
Mike explores a combination of abstract shapes and forms within both an urban and rural context, using oils and pastels.Having previously painted with acrylics, and enjoyed the textural possibilities that they could offer, Mike decided to experiment with oils and pastels. He discovered that a mixture of the two provided him with a means of expression which forms the main body of his most recent works. Exhibition runs from June 29 – August 2 at Bristol Folk House. More info at www.bristolfolkhouse.co.uk
Raw materials: Four American Artists: 1972 to 2007
Major works from the Artist Rooms collection of international contemporary art is coming to Bristol. Raw Materials brings together icons of American art whose work has been a major influence on art today: featuring Jenny Holzer, Bruce Nauman, Ed Ruscha and Lawrence Weiner, who have pioneered new approaches to art since the 1960s. This free exhibition runs until September 23 at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. More info at www.bristol.gov.uk
Coexist presents an exhibition on storytelling
Taking place on July 3 and showcasing artwork by creative tenants of Hamilton House,the theme of storytelling is explored through drawings of faces presented with text by Martin Rieser, an upholstered chair telling the history of Bristol by Becky Gooby to 3D sculptures and puppet shows from Alice Rolfe and Becca Rose. Free entry. More info at www.hamiltonhouse.org
Circomedia – ’Play Dead’
Circomedia’s unmissable end-of-degree-course show is getting an exciting new twist this year. Unusually, its performers are no longer students – they’re graduates and each had to pass tough auditions to win a place in this production. Directed by the internationally-acclaimed dance and circus-theatre artist, John-Paul Zaccarini. Expect dark comedy, sad moments, schlock, shock, gore and awe as Circomedia’s Class of 2012 salutes some of our favourite horror/ghost films. More info at www.circomedia.com Tickets, £12, from Colston Hall Box Office on 0117 922 3686
Beacons, Icons and Dykons
A playful ode to gay and queer cinema, this event forms part of Pride Bristol at The Cube, on July 12. From Dolly Parton to ?Kenneth Anger and John Waters, this event honours them one by one – followed by a screening of Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Hosted by Tom Marshman with performances by Drew Taylor, Justin Credible and Liz Clarke. Tickets £5 from www.cubecinema.com
The Invisible Circus - The Rogue’s Revenge
The amazing Invisible Circus are back as part of Bristol Harbour festival (July 20-22). Be thwarted by shipwrecks, astounded by staggering feats of dexterous circus skills, and seduced by the divine musical score from The Carny Villains. Be mesmerised by mermaids, hunted down by customs and excise, lose all sense of direction in the sea mist, and finally stumble back to port, victorious, clutching on to your treasured portraits from The Invisible Photo Booth, with a tattoo you won’t regret in the morning, and a head full of deep sea dreams.Dress Code: Deep sea diverse: Weevils vs. mermaids. Tickets £15. More info at www.invisiblecircus.co.uk
Upfest
One of the world’s best urban art festivals took place in South Bristol last month – with hundreds of street artists and street art lovers descending on Southville for a fab weekend of art and entertainment – the results of which can now be seen in all their glory. Head down to the Tobacco Factory and surrounding streets and you cannot fail to miss the amazing selection of art adorning once bear walls. The artwork should be up for a while but check it out while the paint’s still fresh! Also worth dropping into the static Upfest gallery on North Street too. More info at www.upfest.co.uk
Ron Clooney Q&A
Author Ron Clooney heads to Waterstone’s in Bristol Galleries on July 28, to talk about and sign copies of his new book - Mr. Mojo Risin’ (Ain’t Dead). Ron’s controversial novel asks us to take a second look at the circumstances surrounding the death of legendary rocker Jim Morrison, and poses the question: did he really die in Paris in 1971? Ron is happy to chat with fans and discuss with doubters. Ron will be inshore from 10.30am until 3.30pm.
Thom Bleasdale exhibition
Photographer Thom Bleasdale has his debut exhibition at Centrespace, Bristol, this month. The work, entitled ‘A Rare Photograph of the Soul Leaving the Body’, comprise 29 pieces – which were influenced from time Tom spent in the UK, Barcelona, Holland and LA. Exhibition started on July 27 and finishes on August 1. More information at www.thombleasdale.com
