What’s On the Walls
Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester is undoubtedly the epicenter of homegrown talent. The space has hosted works from legendary artists like J.M.W Turner and multidisciplinary artists like Bobby Baker. Currently, Delaine Le-Bas is visiting Manchester with a special exhibit titled Un-Fair-Ground – which travels through the works created by herself, her husband, and a collection of artists around the globe.
Le-Bas was shortlisted for the Turner Prize in 2024 and the quality of the work displayed stands as evidence for it. Walking into the doors of Whitworth, you are greeted – encompassed, really – by huge massing of the Victorian building with white tapestry draped from wall to ceiling.
First Impression is the Last Impression
Expect nothing else than an ‘all-star’ play between cloth and colours at the gallery. You will recognise familiar faces like Snow White, and even yourself (through a mirror, of course!). The rooms and their corners share the same sense of extravagance that is packed with meaning wherever you seek it. The first room steals the show with an installation blooming with pink and curated splatters of paint reading “NO” on cotton tapestry.
Behind this installation is an even grander panel with collaborative works from artists. Surrounded in the rooms next to it are installations built around the feeling of home – whether you find it in your body, in the memories of your childhood or in a ‘Witch House’. Artists like John Martin, Madge Gill, Paula Rego, and William Blake are featured with their works complementing the creations of Le Bas.
History of Home Through Art and Words
A personal favourite is Gallery 8 which fills you with awe as you enter. Looking around ivory cotton and calico draped around the room, you realise that this exhibits transcends the traditional notions of a collection and brings together a celebration of artists from a variety of decades.
The same room hosts a painting called Endeavours of a Certain Poet (1985) by Ana Maria Pacheco and a mirror piece created by Damien Le Bas in 2004. Cumulatively, you are introduced to the craftsmanship of textile work through distinct lenses.
A novel addition to the exhibit is a welcoming table laid with publications related to the themes curated in the gallery. The visitor will find it to be the perfect nook to sit and read further about the artists, the history of Romani legacy, and the politics of contemporary art.
Lingering outside by the lobby, the visiting crowd exits near me and I recall the artworks I caught them pausing beside, and sharing commentary about. This is an exhibit that narrates folklore and history through methods that inspire and leave you with curiosity for the unknown.
Take a moment to explore Un-Fair-Ground yourself at the Whitworth Gallery before 31st May 2026.
