20.07.24 - 06.10.24. Opening Events 19.07.24, 4-8pm
Artist, writer and filmmaker, Abi Palmer's debut solo exhibition crafts an alternate reality wherein slugs, rather than being met with revulsion, are revered.
In Slime Mother, Abi invites viewers to delve into a world where slime, queerness, the politics of space, the erotic, and alien mating rituals intertwine, urging them to merge with and embrace the intricate strangeness of these resilient gastropods.
Throughout her multifaceted practice, Abi uses the fluctuations of her disabled body as a jumping-off point, creating work that is not only multisensory and fragmented but also profoundly Queer.
The exhibition will be accompanied by Slugs: a Manifesto, a new publication by Abi, published by Makina Books in collaboration with Chapter and will expand across a programme of films, workshops, BSL tours and more.
Abi Palmer said: "I identify with the slug: I too have been regarded with repulsion, no more than a pest stealing spoils from the hardworking farmer. Once I allow myself space to move beyond visceral disgust and phobia, I find space for beauty, fascination and even a glistening reverence for a creature who became more disgusting as a means of survival".
Curator Sim Panaser said: “Abi’s multi-faceted exhibition presents a slug cosmology that centres marginalised communities. In embracing the softness, resilience and resistance of these slimy creatures, Abi offers us transformative possibilities of rethinking the ways we build community and connect.”
We want to welcome as many people as possible to the exhibition so, on 19 and 20 July, we’re offering three ways to get together and celebrate with the artist.
19 July, 4-6pm, Gallery
A quieter time to see the show. During this period we ask that people wear a mask and not wear perfume. Sounds in the exhibition will be lowered.
19 July, 6pm-8pm, Gallery
At 7pm, there’ll be a short reading by Abi from the exhibition’s accompanying text Slugs: A Manifesto. A pay bar will be available. Masks are not mandatory but welcomed.
20 July, 12pm-1.15pm, online
Join Abi for an online tour of the exhibition with Q&A, captions will be provided. Booking is required and can be made via the website.
This exhibition is supported by Arts Council of Wales and the Henry Moore Foundation.
Image: Abi Palmer, photo by Robin Christian 2024