Eduardo Paolozzi Re-readings

A one-day conference at Manchester Metropolitan University

This one-day conference, conceived by the Visual Culture Research Centre within MIRIAD, shed new light on the graphic works of Eduardo Paolozzi (1924-2005). The conference sought to make a significant contribution to the reappraisal of this seminal artist/co-founder of the Independent Group. His work was included in two recent major exhibitions, "Eduardo Paolozzi: The Jet Age Compendium" at Raven Row, London (2009) and "CRASH: Homage to JG Ballard" at the Gagosian, London (2010).

The conference findings supplemented an exhibition by Paolozzi at the Holden Gallery at MMU (16 Feb - 11 Mar). Paolozzi's edition, GENERAL DYMANIC F.U.N. (1970), comprises 50 screen prints and photolithographs and is introduced by his friend and collaborator, J.G. Ballard. On publication, this work was welcomed as Pop Art, but through Ballard's eyes it was closely related to his own literary project that sought to analyze the media landscape for its libidinous content.

Taking the metaphor of re-reading – speakers reconsidered Paolozzi's work from a variety of points of view, including the significance of his collaboration with Ballard.

http://www.miriad.mmu.ac.uk/visualculture/paolozzi/