Christine Borland (2003)

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'An Hospital: the velocity of drops'
6 June - 24 August 2003

Christine Borland's exhibition of new work was inspired by the artist's research at Mount Stuart and centred on various themes: the history of the house as a naval hospital during the 1st World War, the botanical illustrations in the archives and the concept of collecting and collections (ranging from the internationally important collections at Mount Stuart to people's collections of 'sea ceramics' washed up along the shore) and the desire in all of us to own objects which we can order, display and treasure. The exploration of the archives and access to areas at Mount Stuart (which are normally inaccessible to the public) is of great significance to her research.

Borland's research in the library at Mount Stuart led her to the discovery of botanical illustrations of crimson seaweed, which she incorporated into the wall painting of a skeleton. Archival printed and photographic material was exhibited alongside a single white porcelain bone and fragments of porcelain weathered by the sea. The series of photographic works 'The Velocity of Drops' presents shattered watermelons as visual metaphors for physical trauma and the vulnerability of the human body, within the ornate interiors of Mount Stuart. Each image is named according to the location's wartime use – the Conservatory as Operating Theatre, the Purple Library as X-ray room and the Drawing Room as Surgical Ward.

Other previously commissioned artists

Mount Stuart, Britain’s most astounding Victorian gothic house

The Velocity of Drops: An Hospital, Christine Borland, 2003
Photography: Alan Dimmick