University of Chester lecturer has sculptures exhibited in renowned Italian gallery

Dec 10 2009 Chester Chronicle

A COLLECTION of sculptures inspired by industrial materials and processes, produced by a senior lecturer at the University of Chester, has been exhibited in the prestigious Conservatorio Luigi Cherubini in Florence.

Dr Jeremy Turner, senior lecturer in fine art, exhibited the sculptures at the specialist school of music throughout November, continuing the strong links the university has with the Conservatorio and the Fiesole Art School.

Entitled The Heavens Reflect Our Labours, Dr Turner first exhibited this sculpture collection at the Grosvenor Museum, in Chester, in 2008. This exhibition curated by Peter Boughton, the Keeper of Art and Architecture, continued the collaboration between the University and the Museum.

He said: “I was extremely excited about the prospect of exhibiting in Florence, I’ve exhibited many times in the UK, but never in Italy. I would love to do more international exhibitions.

“My work evokes the relationship between industrial materials and our changing environment and landscape. I received many positive comments about the exhibition, which comprises a dozen pieces. The oldest piece I completed 10 years’ ago but it fits in well with the collection.”

He added: “Florence is an incredibly beautiful place; it has no direct bearing on my work but the art history that is there is inspiring, and as an artist you can’t help but appreciate it.”

The links with Fiesole Art School date back to 2004 after Maggie Jackson, Senior Lecturer in Art History, was invited to visit the School.

She said: “I was impressed with the work they were doing and ever since our students have been fortunate enough to visit them to draw, paint, make frescoes and take photos, while learning from the wealth of art history in Florence and Tuscany. We also had a photographic exhibition there in 2006.

“It is very thrilling that Jeremy has managed to do this and showcase his work in such a prominent place. We now look forward to continuing our strong links with Fiesole Art School.”