Dion Kitson
Dion Kitson | |
|---|---|
| Born | |
| Nationality | British |
| Alma mater | Birmingham School of Art |
| Occupation | Artist |
| Website | www |
Dion Kitson is a contemporary British artist whose works includes sculpture, installation, film, and found objects, with a sharp focus on humor and social critique.[1][2][3] His art frequently explores themes of British class and identity, transforming everyday objects and cultural symbols into thought-provoking pieces.[4]
In 2020, Dion Kitson was awarded the ACS Studio Prize, a prestigious accolade that provided him with vital resources to enhance his artistic practice.[5]
Early life and education
[edit]Kitson was raised in Dudley, in the heart of the Black Country, a region known for its industrial past and urban decay.[6] This environment significantly influenced his artistic outlook, inspiring themes of decline and working-class life that are prevalent in his work. He studied at the Birmingham School of Art, where he developed a multidisciplinary approach influenced by Dadaism, street art and conceptual art practices.[7]
Kitson's work is distinguished by its wit and innovative approach.[8] He critically examines British cultural traditions, utilizing humour to challenge perceptions of class and identity.[9] His artistic practice often involves reimagining common materials and found objects, reflecting influences from Dadaism and notable artists such as Marcel Duchamp and Damien Hirst.[10]
Notable works and exhibitions
[edit]Kitson's exhibitions merge art and life, immersing viewers in experiences shaped by his cultural insights.
- Baked in Gold — Greggs Jewellery Collaboration: This limited-edition jewelry collection, launched during London Fashion Week 2024, features playful, bakery-themed accessories that celebrate British culture and Greggs' iconic status, blending art with everyday fashion.[11][12]
- "Rue Britannia" (2024) at Ikon Gallery: This exhibition showcased an architectural installation titled Council House of Kitson, replicating the façade and interior of his father's home. The exhibit used the metaphor of Dudley's decline to critique broader issues of urban decay and social stagnation in British towns.[13]
- Silver Lining (2024) at Ikon Gallery: Consists of a collection of characteristically droll objects and sculptural interventions scattered throughout the factory, responding to its historical context.[14]
- Dion Kitson's work was featured in the Best British Art exhibition at the 57th Venice Biennale in 2017. The exhibition, curated by Vanya Balogh, was part of a satellite project called Empire II.
Collaborations
[edit]Dion Kitson has collaborated with comedian Joe Lycett on various projects that intertwine art and comedy. Their partnership highlights the synergy between visual art and performance, creating engaging experiences that resonate with audiences. Lycett has often featured Kitson's works in his shows, incorporating them into his comedic narratives and enhancing the social commentary embedded in both their practices. The collaboration allows for a unique dialogue between their fields, as Kitson's art complements Lycett's humor, often addressing themes of British identity and societal issues. This interplay not only amplifies the reach of Kitson's artwork but also enriches the comedic landscape by providing depth and thought-provoking material for Lycett's performances.
Joe Lycett praised him, stating that Kitson "understands the state of our nation better than anyone, and why it is the way it is: funny, and beautiful, and dumb.[15]
References
[edit]- ^ Cumming, Laura (12 May 2024). "Artemisia in Birmingham; Jesse Jones: Mirror Martyr Mirror Moon; Dion Kitson: Rue Britannia review – reshaping art history". The Observer. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ Wynarczyk, Natasha (10 September 2024). "Greggs launches tasty jewellery range including sausage roll earrings". The Mirror. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ Jenkins, Paul (12 September 2024). "From protestor to high profile designer – Who is Dudley artist behind Greggs inspired jewellery?". www.expressandstar.com. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ Disley, Jan (10 September 2024). "Greggs stuns fans with limited edition jewellery collection". Express.co.uk. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ "Dion Kitson wins ACS Studio Prize 2020". Artists' Collecting Society. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ Rack, Susie. "Birmingham silver-factory exhibition plays on industrial past". www.bbc.com. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ Babbs, Verity (7 August 2020). "Dion Kitson: Artists Inside The Industry". Art Plugged. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ Patrick, Holly. "Greggs launches 22-carat gold bakery-themed jewellery". www.msn.com. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ "Fast-Food Fashion: Are We Lovin It?". Esquire. 10 September 2024. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ Dixon, Natalie. "Greggs launch 22 Carat gold jewellery collection with Dion Kitson ahead of London Fashion Week". National World. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ Roberts, Lila Flint (11 September 2024). "Sausage roll studs? Greggs just launched a 22-carat gold jewellery collection". www.mailplus.co.uk. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ "Greggs enters the fashion world with 22-carat gold jewellery". LDNFASHION. 10 September 2024. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ "RUE BRITANNIA Dion Kitson at Ikon and in the JQ". ichoosebirmingham.com. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ Trigg, David. "Dion Kitson: Rue Britannia* and Silver Lining**". www.studiointernational.com. Retrieved 28 October 2024.
- ^ Lissaman, Clare (13 April 2024). "Joe Lycett behind Banksy mural hoax in Birmingham". BBC News. Retrieved 28 October 2024.