Rhoades Galllery
Revival, Resurrection and Transformation
The works in this room reflect on the idea of transformation, transition, and transubstantiation, and allude to the elemental and ritualistic nature of those processes.

On the far wall, Nikolaus Geyrhalter’s film ‘Our Daily Bread’ (2005) lyrically depicts the highly- developed technologies of contemporary farming. Dominating the centre of the room is a series of long tables with works relating to social eating, by various artists and collectives including Bedwyr Williams, Laure Prouvost, Pablo Bronstein, Aaron Angell and Francesca Ulivi. Food and eating have become significant themes in contemporary artists’ work, revisiting traditional connections and a broader notion of creativity.

The remainder of the room is populated by two small structures, one of which is ‘Anchorhold’ (2015) designed by the architectural practice Sutherland Hussey Harris, working in collaboration with artist Marcus Coates. The name ‘Anchorhold’ refers to a 10th century hermitage in which Anchorites would withdraw from society to deliberate on God. The stored apples are available for visitors to eat. The second structure is the ‘House of Ferment’ (2015) by Karen Guthrie, a mobile larder that includes collected vintage kitchenalia and functional components by invited artists.

A compost heap is installed in the far section of the gallery to symbolise growth and transformation, the biological action of death into life; soil being one of the essential components for sustaining life, alongside water, light and air. Displayed on the walls nearby are four iconic works from 1572 by Giuseppe Arcimboldo, humorously celebrating our connection with nature and the seasons. These are joined by a magnificent Flemish still life painting of a banquet-piece, by Jacob van Hulsdonck and a John Martin painting, ‘Sadak in Search of the Waters of Oblivion’ (1812), which depicts a tiny climbing figure set against a vast and unstable landscape – a timeless motif of human endeavour and the force of nature.

Lobby Area
A lobby leading off from this gallery houses The Honest Shop, selling products handmade by the local community. There is no special selection process for what is sold; anyone living locally may place their wares in the shop – provided they are handmade. Visitors may purchase the products at the price specified and are trusted to leave the money in an honesty box. This bespoke, unregulated model for trading provides a unique snapshot of the people of Bruton and suggests an alternative to commercial mass consumerism.

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSaveSaveSave

Sign up for the latest news from Hauser & Wirth