Tim Spooner: A New Kind of Animal

6 Oct 2023-21 Jan 2024

The Bluecoat, Liverpool

Tim Spooner stands as a widely acclaimed artist, navigating various disciplines to craft frequently unpredictable and distinctive works. His focus lies in exploring how we attempt to interpret the world, delving into realms like creation myths or metaphysics – the philosophical branch addressing abstract concepts such as being, knowing, identity, time, and space. Spooner conducts experiments with material behaviours to gain a deeper comprehension, using these insights to fashion collections of sculptures and objects that coalesce into concepts for potential universes.

In the presentation of A New Kind of Animal at the Bluecoat, Spooner introduces an exhilarating new commission – a multitude of furry, quivering animatronic sculptures. Accompanying this fresh endeavor is a noteworthy body of Spooner's existing work, spanning over 190 pieces in collage, painting, sculpture, and objects employed in performances spanning the last 15 years. This retrospective survey of his oeuvre serves as a foundation for the innovative commission, providing a set of instructions for the manifestation of 'a new kind of animal.'

A New Kind of Animal constitutes a nationally touring exhibition, co-commissioned by the Bluecoat and Southwark Park Galleries, London.

The exhibition graces Southwark Park Galleries from 15 July to 24 September 2023.

This touring initiative is made feasible through the support of Arts Council England and The Paul and Louise Cooke Endowment.

About The Bluecoat

The Bluecoat stands as Liverpool’s contemporary arts centre, not just a venue but a functional haven for artists and a space where audiences can encounter art in novel ways. Nestled in the city centre within a striking, Grade I listed building, the Bluecoat presents a dynamic array of exhibitions and events, an award-winning program catering to families and children, and a vibrant café offering delectable homemade meals. The perennially open legendary garden provides an ideal setting for a coffee break.

The Bluecoat also houses diverse independent retailers and creative enterprises, ranging from wedding dresses and handmade gifts to vintage records and house plants – ensuring a satisfying shopping experience. The year-round events calendar is brimming with literary readings, dance performances, print courses, and family workshops, catering to a broad spectrum of interests.

Be inspired by the gallery's free exhibitions showcasing works by artists from around the globe, just around the corner.