14/08/2009

The Select exhibition Past Present, was developed through conversations between the staff at Nunnington Hall, renowned for its programme of temporary art and photographic exhibitions, and the Arts Council Collection team based near Wakefield. Inspired by the idea of using the whole of Nunnington Hall as a gallery space, the display will show some of the finest contemporary artists represented within the Arts Council Collection and will be one of the Hall's most innovative exhibitions to date.

 "Nunnington has secured a reputation of some stunning exhibitions," says Visitor Services Manager, Annabelle Coaten, "but this time we have decided to challenge ourselves further and in this show are using the whole house as the exhibition space. It is the first time this kind of venture has been done between the National Trust and the Arts Council Collection so it's an exciting prospect. Most of the Hall's rooms will have a piece of contemporary art within their historic setting. Set against a historic backdrop, we think people's preconceptions will be challenged as it is not always obvious what is a modern addition and what is an older part of our existing collection. We hope that visitors will be able to enjoy the show for its artistic merit and pleasure and see that in context, modern art doesn't always have to shock or confuse."

Ruth Partington, The Arts Council's Collection Sculpture Collection Manager says, "This exhibition has been a unique and interesting experience - we have had to approach the selection from a completely different angle, considering the house and it's original contents in our choice of works to create a display that will both complement and challenge.  We have chosen from over 7,500 works available to reach a selection specifically tailored to suit the house and the story it has to tell. It has been a really exciting journey.  This will be a very different show for Nunnington, often surprising but very beautiful and definitely worth seeing."

Caroline Douglas, Head of the Arts Council Collection says, "We are delighted to be collaborating with the National Trust at Nunnington Hall.  This imaginative project brings the contemporary into the historic in a way we hope will bring new understanding to both."

The list of artists in the exhibition is impressive. Among those featuring are Tracey Emin, Yoko Ono, Sarah Lucas, Grayson Perry, Mark Wallinger, Lisa Cheung, Victoria Hall and one of this year's Turner prize nominees, Lucy Skaer.  

Lucy Skaer says, "I am excited to be a part of the Past Present exhibition at Nunnington Hall.   In the context of the hall the artworks will take on a new dimension, whether in harmony or conflict with the historic setting.  I think there will be unexpected resonances between old and new. "

Past Present runs from Tuesday 22^nd September until Sunday 1^st November. Normal opening times and admission charges apply. For further details please telephone Nunnington Hall (01439) 748283.

The show is kindly sponsored by J Lister Electrical of York, The Ryedale Group of Kirkbymoorside and The Feversham Arms & Verbena Spa in Helmsley.