From 7 May - 30 September 2006, Nathan Coley exhibits an illuminated sculpture within the 18th century landscaped parkland next to the spectacular Victorian Gothic house, Mount Stuart. Reached by walking through the trees into a grass avenue, the emotive nature of the work has a magical and theatrical quality and takes ownership of the space in which it is located.

Within Mount Stuart’s visitor centre gallery, Coley presents three new works referencing physical sites of the main religions of the world: Christianity, Judaism and Islam. These are objects which are trying to deny their visibility and disguise their form, using the appropriated language of ‘Dazzle’ painting or wartime camouflage, and are read against the backdrop of a wall painting.

Coley has chosen an object from the historical collection, previously unseen, to be exhibited within the house. The story of this object pushes the discussion back and forward in time, as well as asking questions of the present. The intervention is understated and poignant, and is a final gesture in Coley’s elegant essay about visibility and invisibility.

The exhibition highlights the space and interaction between all three presentations, and the areas where they overlap, collide or contradict – this is the area that the audience occupies. The work continues the development of Coley’s exploration of architecture, symbolism, religious and political ideologies, faith, heart and reason.

A book containing essays by curator Andrea Schlieker and archivist Andrew McLean is published by Mount Stuart Trust, as an integral part of the project (edition of 1000).

Through the visual arts programme, Mount Stuart Trust aims to promote and facilitate interest in the contemporary visual arts and bring exhibitions of international standard to Bute and Argyll. To create potential for a wider audience and new perspectives, it utilizes the context of Mount Stuart and the island of Bute as an exciting opportunity for public artwork and provides inclusive educational opportunities. 

Preview:  Saturday 6 May 2pm - 4pm
Artist’s Talk:  Sunday 7 May at 3pm
Exhibition:  7 May - 30 September 2006

For further information please contact:
contactus@mountstuart.com  
www.mountstuart.com  
Mount Stuart, Isle of Bute PA20 9LR
T: +44 (0)1700 503 877

Gallery open daily 10am-6pm ADMISSION FREE
Ferry and train information: www.calmac.co.uk/summer-bute-timetable