New free-entry exhibition People’s Art set to open at the Harley Gallery in 2025.

On show from 18 January until 13 March at the Harley Foundation in Nottinghamshire, People’s Art shows the work of five contemporary artists – Ingrid Murphy, Zac Weinberg, Liaqat Rasul, Julia Griffiths Jones, and Francisca Onumah.

Each artist has created new work in response to historic pieces of folk art made by unnamed artists. These new artworks will be displayed alongside the object that inspired it: from wine glasses to a traditional Welsh quilt, to Punch and Judy doorstops.

The exhibition encourages visitors to question what defines “art” versus “craft” and how we assign value to each. “People’s Art is a small part in the age-old art versus craft debate,” says Lisa Gee, Director of the Harley Foundation. “Our five contemporary artists may call themselves makers, but they no longer create things which can be used – instead creating modern works designed to be considered and thought about. Historic quilts are now hung on walls and called art, but who decides this – the maker or the viewer?”

People’s Art opens a space for visitors of all backgrounds to ask: When does craft become art? What gives value to an object – its function, its aesthetics, or the story it tells? And which of these objects would you live with?

Featured Artists and Works: Ingrid Murphy used AI and opensource digital databases to create modern interpretations of classic ceramic Wally Dogs, blending traditional ceramic skills with digital techniques.

Zac Weinberg took inspiration from Victorian dessert wine glasses to create two modern glass pieces exploring Victorian customs – from toasting to duelling.

Liaqat Rasul responded to Punch and Judy cast-iron doorstops, creating an artwork focused on domestic violence awareness.

Julia Griffiths Jones took inspiration from a 19th-century Welsh quilt, transforming textile motifs into metal.

Francisca Onumah reinterpreted a large 1900s metal kettle which was used as a shop sign, her response is made from patinated copper and references the shadows cast by the original sign.

People’s Art is a National Glass Centre touring exhibition with support from Arts Council England.

– People’s Art is on show at the Harley Foundation, Nottinghamshire from 18 January – 13 March 2025.

– The exhibition is free to enter and there is a large, free car park.

– The Gallery is open Tuesday – Sunday. Please check www.harleyfoundation.org.uk for opening times.

– The Harley Foundation is on the Welbeck estate, on the A60 south of Worksop. It is 15 minutes from both the A1 and M1.

www.harleyfoundation.org.uk