Output details
34 - Art and Design: History, Practice and Theory
University of Dundee
BURNSIANA. (17 digital photographic works, 5 ceramic works, Associated Publication) Exhibited at: ‘Inspired', Mitchell Library, Glasgow (2009); Creative Burns', The Dick Institute, Kilmarnock (2009); ’Scottish Makars', Scotland House, Brussels (2009); 'Cryptoreal - Art and Myth’, Francis Lewis Gallery, Flushing, New York (2009); ‘Inspired Editions’ The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum (2012) and Burnsiana (2013).
This 4-year research project explores issues of cultural identity and diaspora through the iconography of Robert Burns as an inspiration for the making of visual artefacts. It culminated in the solo exhibition Burnsiana (Ayr, 7/6/13-15/9/13).
Colvin uses visual layering and narrative techniques to explore current perspectives on Scottish identity, history and politics through the prism of Burns poetry and Burns-related material culture. The finished works consist of large scale photographic prints and a series of printed ceramic plates exploring subjects such as ageing, sectarianism, cultural fragmentation, fiscal crises and visual paradox, whilst specifically referring to the poetic narrative of Burns.
The works are featured in an associated forthcoming publication ‘Burnsiana, Poems and Artwork Inspired by the Life and Legacy of Robert Burns’ (Luath Press, Edinburgh 2013 ISBN 978-1-908373-91-5) which also contains poems in response to the work by poet Rab Wilson, and 11,000 word essay by Colvin and Wilson. There was extensive media coverage of the exhibition including a BBC Radio Scotland interview (Culture Café 7/6/13) and the Herald (10/7/13). One work in this portfolio ‘Twa Plack’ featured prominently in the 90 min BBC4 television documentary 'A Portrait of Scotland' (7/9/09 9pm BBC Four, simulcast on BBCHD channel.
Repeated on BBC 2,11.20 19/11/09. Viewing figures: BBC 4 tx - 270 000, and the BBC 2 tx - 500 000) which explored the rise of portraiture in Scotland - from the Reformation up to the present day – and the extent to which it has reflected the changing face of the nation. During the research there were a number of group exhibitions including: ‘Inspired', Mitchell Library, Glasgow (2009); Creative Burns', The Dick Institute, Kilmarnock (2009); ’Scottish Makars', Scotland House, Brussels (2009); 'Cryptoreal - Art and Myth’, Francis Lewis Gallery, Flushing, New York (2009); ‘Inspired Editions’ The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum (2012).
