Prize artist Ed Burkes draws on Derbyshire tradition

Ed will showcase his work at Derby Museum and Art Gallery from today (Friday, September 11) until February 21, 2021.

Winner of the Jonathan Vickers Fine Art Award, Ed has created a body of new paintings entitled Dandelion. His work in Derbyshire has been inspired by everyday observations, hidden history and the poetics of language, while the county’s tradition of well dressing is a recurring theme.

The Jonathan Vickers award in conjunction with Foundation Derbyshire brings a rising artist to the county every two years to produce work on the theme 'A Sense of Place', inspired by the county’s people, heritage and landscape.

Based at the University of Derby’s Banks Mill Studios, Ed has produced new work for solo exhibitions at both Derby Museum and Art Gallery and the Mall Galleries in London.

Ed said: “I’m very lucky to have been awarded this residency. For me, making artwork is such a cathartic and pleasant experience - it really helps me consolidate my thoughts and feelings about the world. Making art is really easy to do and if I can help open that up for people, that would be great. My ideas are sparked from the commonplace, a drawing or situation: a friend drinking coffee, a buddy pulling up his socks, someone browsing in the fruit and veg section of Tesco Express. Through the process of painting, everyday scenes are given a mythic or heroic air.”

Rachael Grime, chief executive of Foundation Derbyshire said: “The Jonathan Vickers Fine Art Award is one of the most valuable art prizes in the country and Ed is a truly worthy winner. Overcoming the challenges and obstacles of lockdown, he has created a bold and intriguing body of work full of colour, theatre, folklore and nods to the everyday.”

Entry to the Dandelion exhibition is free with a request to Give What You Think. Derby Museum and Art Gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10.30am to 4.30pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 4pm.

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