The third in the series of free lunchtime talks taking place as part of the Aesthetica Art Prize is led by University of York Lecturer and Art Historian, James Boaden. From 12.30pm to approximately 1pm on Wednesday 21 May, join Boaden at York St Mary’s – York Art Gallery’s contemporary art space, as he talks about the evolution of artists’ film, drawing upon the works in the exhibition.

Boaden’s research focuses on American art from the mid-twentieth century, and looks in particular at the crossover between experimental film culture and the art world during that period. Boaden is particularly interested in the legacy of Surrealist practice within American art made at mid-century. In 2008-2009 Boaden was the research associate on the project AHRC funded project Queer Surrealism within the Centre for the Study of Surrealism and its Legacies at the University of Manchester, and subsequently an external advisor on the project organising and contributing to a number of events.

Organised by Aesthetica Magazine in partnership with York Museums Trust, the Aesthetica Art Prize is a celebration of excellence in contemporary art from across the world, supporting compelling new works and bringing them to a wider audience. The Aesthetica Art Prize Exhibition features shortlisted pieces from artists in the following categories: Photographic and Digital Art; Three Dimensional Design and Sculpture; Painting and Drawing; and Video, Installation and Performance.

The medieval backdrop of York St Mary’s provides an exceptional setting for the exhibition, introducing a new conversation between the historic and the contemporary. Relevant and inspiring, the show represents artistic talent from locations including New Zealand, Chile, Germany, Italy and across the UK. The accompanying publication the Aesthetica Art Prize Anthology includes all 100 finalists from the Art Prize and can be purchased at the gallery and online at www.aestheticamagazine.com/shop.

Following Contemporary Art Talks, Free and Open to All:

Wednesday 28 May
Cherie Federico, Director of Aesthetica Magazine and judge for the Aesthetica Art Prize, explains the selection process for the shortlisted artists.

Wednesday 4 June
Mark Doyle, Head of Collector Development North for the Contemporary Art Society, talks about widening the appreciation and understanding of contemporary art.

The Aesthetica Art Prize Exhibition runs until 22 June at York St Mary’s, Castlegate, York, YO1 9RN. Open daily from 10am – 5pm, free admission. For more information visit www.aestheticamagazine.com/artprize.

Credits
1. Fabiola Mechelli, Triangular Hall. Longlisted for Photographic and Digital Art.