UoG professor is among leading artists featured in unique art trail

University of Gloucestershire’s Professor Andrew Bick is among seven artists of international reputation whose work is being exhibited as part of a unique art trail attracting visitors to churches within areas of outstanding natural beauty in Wales.

Curated by visual arts advisor, Jacquiline Creswell, for Art and Christianity, the Vessel art trail has brought together a collection of seven pieces of art placed individually across seven remote and often-overlooked rural churches, near the Black Mountains between Usk and Hay-on-Wye.

A tapestry designed and created by Andrew Bick – Professor of Contemporary Art and Reinterpretation at the University – entitled Compendium (tree) is being exhibited at the ancient church of St David’s at Llangeview, near Usk (main image).

While the earliest recorded mention of St David’s church is in 1254, historians believe there is evidence, such as the circular churchyard, to suggest that it was occupied far earlier than the 13^th century.

As well as being a practising artist, with work exhibited in Europe and the United States, Professor Bick is Research Lead for Art and Design within the University’s School of Creative Arts, supervising PhD’s in contemporary art practice.

Professor Bick (pictured left) said: “I’m extremely pleased to be supporting the fascinating and thought-provoking Vessel art trail curated by Jacquiline Creswell for Art and Christianity.

“The trail provides a unique opportunity for visitors to pause and reflect on the meaning of ‘vessel’ through art while enjoying the experience of visiting remote rural churches of which they might not otherwise be aware.

“I’m absolutely thrilled with the way Compendium is being exhibited at the wonderful St David’s church and I hope my students and University colleagues will have an opportunity to visit.”

Six of the seven churches, including St David’s (pictured left), are maintained by the charity Friends of Friendless Churches, which keeps them open all year round.

Jaquiline Creswell said: “Curating contemporary art in these extraordinarily intimate churches, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. It requires careful consideration of the historical, spiritual and architectural dimensions of each place.

“By selecting a narrative that resonates across the shared character of the churches and by placing a single work of art that represents a vessel within each of these exceptional ancient sites, we endeavour to create a spiritual environment that allows reflection, dialogue and connection.”

The Vessel art trail, also supported by the Gibbs Trust and the Morel Trust, runs until 31 October, with a weekend event on 13-15 September featuring a guided tour to all seven churches.

Feature image of Compendium being exhibited at St David’s church and the image of St David’s church towards the end of the article are both courtesy of Mud and Thunder