Water into Wine is a captivating series of new paintings by Nottingham artist Kim Thompson. This exhibition, which is also her first solo show, runs until 24 August 2024 at the New Art Exchange. It consists of nine newly commissioned paintings and delves into the lives and experiences of eight Nottingham-based residents of Caribbean descent, including members of the artist's own family. Thompson's work stands out by shifting away from the often dominant narratives of trauma, instead shining a light on the richness and vibrancy of Black life in a regional British city.
Upon entrance, I saw a huge quote on a wall by Lindsay Thompson, which briefly stated, "The changing of water into wine metaphorically signifies the changing of death into life, or transforming a negative situation into not just a positive one, but a joyous one." It felt like a good opening or ending note right at the entrance/exit of the exhibition.
Furthermore, I was guided by Executive Producer Kyle Futers of New Art Exchange, who mentioned that the exhibition showcases aspects of Thompson’s life as well as the lives of Nottingham residents of Caribbean descent. In the exhibition room, I could feel how Thompson’s paintings are not just visual spectacles; they present powerful historical and cultural statements that encourage viewers to reconsider the narratives often absent from contemporary art galleries and museums.
The exhibits beautifully highlighted her personal stories on one side, as well as those of her relatives and family members on the opposite sides of the wall exhibits. For example, the painting "Close to My Heart" subtly symbolizes the birth of a new generation and the fresh beginnings of childhood, depicting two young girls with themes of sisterhood, emotion, and love. This was the only painting created from a digital photograph, while other paintings, such as "The Last Trolleybus" and "The Great Teachers," were created using film cameras. I particularly liked the huge mural on the center end wall of the exhibition titled "New Era," which showed a large school photograph of Christine Miller and showcased buildings and sprawling grounds in the Nottingham suburb of Clifton Village. It also gave a 'happy memory' kind of vibe, which left a positive impact on her.
Additionally, for a sensory experience, the music I heard in the space is a selection of songs chosen by the artist and curator Saziso Phiri, and mixed by Nottingham-based DJ Aicha, which added a personal touch to the exhibition. A few songs were also suggested by the residents who contributed their stories to the exhibition.
I felt like the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to find connections and relativity in our own lives, regardless of our backgrounds. I wanted more to view and felt slightly that the space was too limited to understand the artist and her work in depth.
Rating: 4.5/5
In Water into Wine, Thompson has crafted an exhibition that not only showcases her talent but also creates a space for communities to come together, evoke a spirit of nostalgia, and find relatability between the paintings and their own lives. It's a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art that challenges and inspires.
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