"Energy Objects draws together three sculptural projects by the visual artist Hannah Imlach which consider the context and aesthetics of renewable energy infrastructure. Imlach’s fascination with energy transition, particularly community-initiated projects, began with a residency on the off-grid Isle of Eigg in 2015. This exhibition brings together her sculptural, photographic and print works on this subject, alongside a newly commissioned sculpture series created in association with Aberdeen Community Energy and Peacock Visual Arts, supported by the Royal Scottish Academy."
Her research and engagement with locals in specific areas helped to inform the works and created an open dialogue with their immediate viewers. Tales of ancient rolling stones being thrown into the river by greedy land owners as the gentry tried to stop the people producing their own wheat and barley, instead relying on the water wheeled mills to provide their daily bread. At once removing the peoples basic right and an important task carried out by works in their rural communities. Hannah gave an excellent talk a few weeks ago, covering the creation of each piece in the show and the stories that came to the fore such as the one mentioned.
The objects themselves are beautifully crafted and intrigue well enough but the stories, rituals and power behind them were quite special. I was chuffed to catch up with old friends Dr Lila Matsumoto & Dawn Hynd who'd made the trip up to Aberdeen for the show. Hannah, Dr Lila Matsumoto and Dr Alexandra Campbell hosted a great conversation that explored lots of the themes behind the work as well as expanding into some poetry and spoken word from Lila. Talk around renewable energy proved quite fascinating and again added more depth to the project which hoped to finish up with a special participatory Energy Walk to Donside, taking in the fantastic community hydro scheme. Of course the weather had other ideas and the walk has been postponed with a new date coming soon. But that means there's still a chance to take part and to become a living moving sculpture so be sure to check out the event on facebook!
Check it out at Peacock Visual Arts until 21st September!
