Association of Illustrators: Images 35

This week, we will be looking back at Kirkby Gallery’s 2012 exhibition by the Association of Illustrators: Images 35. It was chosen by Andrea, Clerk of Works at Shakespeare North Playhouse, and Kirkby Gallery Invigilator.

She says “I have visited Kirkby Library since I was a small child, reading was always encouraged when I was growing up. From this I learned to appreciate other forms of art and we were taken to the theatre, museums and galleries. These are places that hold fond childhood memories for me, and I was delighted to hear Kirkby was to have its own gallery, and I have regularly taken my own children to view the exhibitions.

I have bought art work from the gallery, a particular piece which hangs pride of place in my dining room is a piece entitled Life After Redundancy by the illustrator Andrew Baker. I bought this with some money left to me by my Dad when he died unexpectedly. Not long afterwards I was made redundant, I saw this picture in Kirkby Gallery and it is such a positive message, it really helped me change my perspective and see it as a chance to change my career.

I enjoy visiting the gallery as I find it a peaceful and calm environment, and it allows me to empty my mind of all the ‘clutter’ that builds up and see the world from other perspectives, I especially enjoy the variety of mediums on display.

The Association of Illustrators’ Images 35 showcased work by the UK’s most talented illustrators, the premier and longest-running jury-selected annual touring exhibition for illustration in the UK.

Launched in 1976, the AOI exhibition has a long history of promoting the best of contemporary British illustration.  The AOI was established in 1973 to promote contemporary illustration, advance and protect illustrators’ rights and encourage professional standards. It has successfully increased the standing of illustration as a profession and improved commercial and ethical conditions of employment.