Ventnor Blog

If you missed the FreeQuay event on Saturday night …. you definitely missed out. Well done to the organisers of the exhibition and event. Once again, Quay Arts played host to a diverse slice of Isle of Wight art and music.

I’d been up there on Thursday to take some shots of the paintings and sculptures which were out in the cafe, and had a treat on Saturday night when I found the conference room and Michael West gallery open too and with lots more to see.

All the usual suspects were represented, Holly Maslen, Boney, Rachael Berry, Tania Dixcey, Toxic, Chris Jenkins, Rosalind Noctor and more (check out their MySpace for links to artists).


In the cafe, Dr Ergo P Phizmiz was joined by Professor J Phoenix for several hours of sublime experimentation and improvisation, which I enjoyed so much, that I missed out on the live jam upstairs that ended the night (and missing good friend Lucho on the congos).

Back in the cafe, as well as the artwork adourning the walls, Janice Thwaites was busy encouraging visitors to contribute to the paper sculpture that she was creating.

I didn’t get any shots unfortunately, but it looked great by the end of the night.

Upstairs in the cinema, there was a showcase of the best regional shorts, including work by digital artists Nuwave and Ninja Tune and animator, Tom Hicks.

This was followed by a performance/lecture by digital artist Russell Richards. This was one of my favourite parts of the event. Russell, was joined by drummer (anyone know his name?) and pianist (Mick Smith - yes, Director of Quay) who worked their magic in a live improvisation.

Based on the notes they played on the piano and drums, through various pieces of software, different visualisations were projected onto the large screens. As you’ll see from Simon’s photos, they created some pretty diverse patterns. I found it very engaging and would love to see more again on the Island.

Upstairs in the Michael West gallery, the boat sheds were complete and the walls filled with lots of maritime related art/info. I didn’t spend much time up there, but it looks worth a return visit - especially as you get to make and decorate paper boats which will be cast off later in August (details to follow nearer the time).

Overall, I thought it was a great event - as always with Quay Arts, it’s a shame it closes so early, but that did mean we were able to go onto another event and dance our socks off (short review to follow on the blog soon).

Look forward to more of the same in the future and notice that FreeQuay will be touring in late August at the White Air Event (we’ll also be bringing you updates on that too).

More shots to follow soon.

Art, Music, Newport, Writers