In a new exhibition running in the Drawing Room at Tyntesfield until the end of July, six contemporary artists have reimagined the Gothic history and identity of the house.
The notes to the Reviving Gothic collection observe that for over 900 years, the Gothic has been influencing our lives in myriad ways – “from medieval buildings to a creative design that still inspires art, fashion and storytelling today.
“Through brand new artworks, the exhibition reveals Gothic as something alive and always changing, helping us explore ideas about identity, emotion and what it means to be human.”
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Inspired directly by Tyntesfield, the artists contributing to the project have created pieces that respond to gothic themes in very different ways. Tom Marshman’s A Very Gothic Gathering is a sound installation that imagines a “fantasy dinner party”.
The Byron seat from ‘A Very Gothic Gathering’ by Tom Marshman
Around the table, he conjures “figures who embody a queer Gothic sensibility, shaped by transformation, hidden lives and darker undercurrents.
“The work allowed me to bring this imagined gathering to life through actors, reflecting my fascination with the Gothic and its enduring pull on my darker side”, he muses. “These guests, all outsiders in their own way, have stayed with me.”
‘Quis quis huc accedis’ by Giuliana Terran
Elsewhere, a sculpture by Ruby Taglight transforms a Victorian chair to reveal the environmental and human cost behind the wealth that built Tyntesfield; and Giuliana Terran’s portrait brings a modern Gothic figure into the historic house.
Sara Choudhrey’s mixed media piece examines Islamic influences on Gothic architecture, an installation by Brittany Louis looks at identity and belonging, and a cabinet by Matthew Merttens and his apprentices is used to showcase the hidden skill and labour behind Gothic interiors.
‘A bird, came down the walk’ by Ruby Taglight
Reviving Gothic is in the Drawing Room, Tyntesfield until July 31, from 10.30am-3.30pm daily. Admission is free. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk for more information.
All photos: James Beck (main photo: ‘A Very Gothic Gathering’ by Tom Marshman)
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