December 18, 2023

Jerwood New Work Fund artist exhibition announced: Skylarking, Ashley Holmes

A brand new exhibition and events programme by artist and DJ Ashley Holmes will open in Sheffield on 22 February 2024 until 18 May 2024.

Skylarking is an exhibition and events programme by Sheffield-based artist, DJ and broadcaster Ashley Holmes, commissioned by Arts Catalyst and supported by the Jerwood New Work Fund, Arts Council England, The Elephant Trust, and Henry Moore Foundation.

Presented as a constellation of structures for contemplation, rest and listening, Skylarking explores the relationship between landscapes, music and belonging. The works in the exhibition amplify the sounds of the architecture of caves, hills and public spaces in the city, making reference to the echoes and influence of pioneering producers King Tubby and Lee Scratch Perry in Dub, ‘Devil Mix’ productions* in Grime, and experimental studio techniques of popular Black music of the 21st century.

Over the course of the exhibition, a series of workshops, performances and radio shows will bring together artists, writers, musicians and DJs to open up the themes explored in Skylarking. A limited edition of vinyl records developed in collaboration with curator Amrita Dhallu will be released, featuring an alternative version of the sounds of the exhibition.

Skylarking is part of The Mouth in collaboration with Sheffield Museums – two exhibitions that unearth cavities, portals and openings in the landscape through image and sound.

Location: Soft Ground, 37-41 The Moor, Sheffield S1 4PF

Field research at Mam Tor (2021). Image credit: Ashley Holmes