Ben Edge – Folk Renaissance

From the 14^th March for one month only, Ben Edge will be exhibiting in the Tramshed’s CNB Gallery. Titled ‘The Folk Renaissance’, the series includes paintings of Musicians, Circus Performers, Arctic Explorers and Fighters. The collection seeks to depict those somewhat peripheral people who live beyond accepted social and cultural norms. Edge makes icons of these silent, unsung heroes; he accompanies their striking portraits with a descriptive backstory enabling the public to further connect with his subjects on a deeper, more personal level.

In an interview with Franzi Gabbert, Edge reveals his precise artistic process. He also discusses his inspiration, detailing how he himself is reflected in the art he produces. He works at his own pace, in his own way, constricted only by what he finds exciting enough to translate into art. In 2009, Edge made the shortlist for the BP Portrait Award, achieving recognition for his piece ‘The Animal Handler’; this piece was showcased in The National Portrait Gallery. While he is no stranger to artistic recognition, this first solo exhibition marks a pivotal moment in Edge’s burgeoning career.

Steve is very happy to see that creativity lives on in the Edge family – and of course, he’s also very pleased to see his son thriving artistically.

Admission is free so be sure to get down to Shoreditch and check it out!