KALEIDOSCOPIC REALMS REVIEW | corridor8

James Gladwell artwork installed in Kaleidoscopic Realms. Photo by John Hartley

Creative Media & Audio Producer Michael Orr was commissioned by Corridoor8 to write a review of Kaleidoscopic Realms - an exhibition at Nottingham Castle Museum & Art Gallery until 3 November 2024. This exhibition features eight learning disabled and neurodivergent artists all with diverse art forms, travelling different paths to firmly ground themselves in their art practices. Orr says, “The curators have definitely delivered in terms of viewer accessibility. For example, all videos include a British Sign Language interpreter, and there are braille descriptions, audio recordings, and tactile experiences available, so that every viewer can access something from each artist. I do believe this standard should be the minimum benchmark for art to become all inclusive. Every visitor has the opportunity to engage each artist in a variety of ways.”

He goes on to talk about Cameron Morgan’s ceramic works, “I cannot speak highly enough of his glazed ceramic cameras, such as ‘Say Cheese’ (2024), demonstrating visual hyperbole at its best. His affinity with cameras is clear, and the joy this tool of expression provides is clearly visible in how he has crafted his ceramic interpretations, incorporating his sense of humour – which is the glue to all his work.

I will take away from this installation two things: Morgan’s wonderful little piece of cheese, because it makes me smile so deeply, and Kalu’s staggering emotional expression that she applies to her canvas. I will never forget the feeling of first glancing at her work. I wonder how it will affect you.”