Natural Imperfections at Aspex Gallery comprises homegrown artworks

Portsmouth artist Adrian Mundy brings his Natural Imperfections exhibition to Aspex Gallery from 15th June through 14th August 2016, coinciding with Portsmouth Festivities as part of their annual week-long programme of artistic and cultural events.

Natural Imperfections comprises a series of two-dimensional and sculptural works based on handmade paper.

Mundy has had agoraphobia for over 18 years, which at first left him almost housebound. He has also had ME for over 28 years, which physically limits what he can do.

Speaking of the project’s origins, Mundy said: “I was house-sitting for a friend and was wondering what the next step in my life was going to be. I wanted to do more gardening but this was not physically possible.

“A visit to Tuppenny Barn in West Sussex was the catalyst to the project after seeing their amazing eco-build education centre. I decided to combine my love of gardening and art in one project.”

Over a period of two years, Mundy grew and harvested flax, subsequently creating his own handmade paper from the plant fibre. All parts of the plants have been used in some way, from the roots to the dried seed pods.

Items found during cultivation have also been incorporated into the artworks. Natural Imperfections thus addresses the dichotomy of the unpredictability and uncertainty of nature and Mundy’s desire and ambition for perfection in his work.

Mundy concluded: “The power of art and gardening to help people overcome serious conditions is amazing.”

An Arts Council England-supported project, Natural Imperfections has been hosted in two prior locations — Art Space Portsmouth and Tuppenny Barn — before now coming to Aspex.

Joanne Bushnell, Director of Aspex said: “We are delighted to have ‘Natural Imperfections’ as the first show within our newly-renovated Learning Space.

“We were incredibly excited when Adrian approached us with his project, as a key part of our ethos is to support local artists and makers.”

See all of the Portsmouth Festivities 2016 events here on Team Locals »