Origin of WA - Before the Mask

French Street Studios
Glasgow
Friday 15 July 2022

In 2021’s Self-Portrait As A Doll’s House, Sutherland described his recovery from alcoholism, with Origin of Wa he reflects on the emotions and behaviours from his younger self which he can recognise still.

I was a solitary child obsessed by drawing, dressing up and telling stories with my toys, I have explored how these characteristics formed me as an adult and forms my creative practice as I continue to tell stories through my makings.

I have created a tale of childhood and loss of innocence including themes of self-awareness, community and forming relationships which I hope will provoke an emotional response from the viewer as well as opening a dialogue around such issues as childhood trauma, autism and the healing power of art. 

I will encourage the audience to create and write their own stories based on the images they are presented with and will collate these on the website.

Bob’s journey is told through a series of large-scale paintings, diorama and sculpture created in a naïve and nostalgic manner reminiscent of children’s story books and churches where a narrative can be followed visually.

The story explores Maslow’s hierarchy of needs food/shelter/relationships/self-esteem/self-actualisation and portrays these in an accessible relatable manner whilst provoking the viewer to create their own narrative for individual pieces and the exhibition as a whole.

  • 103 - 109 French Street, Dalmarnock, Glasgow G40 4JS

    Set within the Clyde Gateway Regeneration District in Dalmarnock. French St Studios is a beautiful old red brick building, once a weaving factory, now repurposed for use as an exhibition and gallery space as well as to be used by the local community for cultural endeavours.

  • By Car/Taxi/Drop Off: postcode. G40 4JSwhat3words: ///chairs.hips.parade

    There is ample free parking directly outside the venue and surrounding streets. It takes only 5 minutes to drive from the city centre to the venue.

    By Train: The closest train station is Dalmarnock Train Station, which is only 100m from the venue and a 6 minute walk to the venue. Glasgow Central Low Level trains to Dalmarnock depart every 10-15mins and directional signage will lead you straight to the venue.

    By Bus: First Bus Number 18 and Number 263 both depart from Ingram Street opposite GOMA to Dalmarnock's Bartholomew Street on Dalmarnock Road. Bus journey time is 14mins and directional signage will lead you directly from the bus stop to the venue.

    Active Travel: From Glasgow Green/Glasgow city centre it takes approx 20mins to walk and only 6 mins to cycle, skate or scoot.

    Accessible Parking: There is accessible parking directly outside the venue on French Street with ramp access for wheelchair users.