Interview With A Curator: Exhibit69
News Published on:Exhibit69-curated show, 'My Love Is Your Love' runs from 12th-21st February.
‘My Love Is Your Love’ features works from over 30 artists, including identical duo The Cameron Twins, comedian and presenter Noel Fielding, Sex Pistols frontman Frank Carter, printmaker and long-time Chemical Brothers collaborator Kate Gibb, legendary graffiti artist Zomby, plus many more.
With just days until our 'love'-themed group show opens, we sat down with curator and Jealous artist Exhibit69 AKA Mark Anthony to find out more about his process, bringing people together and the part he plays in growing a gatekeeping-free space for creatives.
Hi Mark, how are you feeling in the lead up to the opening of our ‘My Love Is Your Love’ exhibition?
I'm very excited. I've worked extremely hard throughout the years. I sound cliché but art really kept me alive through mental health challenges, and I've been fortunate to receive encouragement from those who saw my potential before I did. On this journey I have met some amazing artists and people, so I wanted to share love in the best way that I know how.
What does it mean to work with Jealous and Big Issue as the curator of this show?
I'm very honoured to work with the Jealous Gallery team and Big Issue. So many huge names have passed through the Jealous doors and Dario and the whole team are amazingly talented and genuinely wonderful people. Big Issue has been operating and assisting people for over 35 years which is an incredible achievement.
I used to be homeless and went on to work in the social housing sector. To be able to assist and bring people together through art is something I'm extremely proud of. I used to dream of having my work in Jealous Gallery. To curate a show here is the cherry on top.
Behind the scenes: Exhibit69 taking a peek at the 'My Love Is Your Love' works before they hit the Jealous walls!
Where do you like to create, do you have a studio space where your ideas come to life? Or do you get inspired on the go?
I create in 2 different spaces.
Forevergood in London Bridge has been instrumental in my development through ideas and structure as an artist. I also had my first 2 solo shows there. I also enjoy painting at my home. My ideas and inspiration come from people and past traumas that I have worked through. Most of my ideas come to me in the shower lol!
Following on from ‘Being Poor Is Expensive’, you’re debuting two new works in ‘My Love Is Your Love’. Can you tell us more about the process behind these pieces?
Through my brand ECSTASY, Blackie the Brown Bear was derived to provide satirical social commentary and affirmations to make people laugh and feel good.
It is my aim to mix nostalgic times that adults can relate to; using the style of colouring books that used to hang on the fridge and mix it with current affairs, vices, and taboo subjects, encouraging dialogue using a bear to cut the tension.
Exhibit69 and participating artist Miguel H. Cuar have also transformed the Jealous rooftop with a Big Issue-themed mural.
What’s next after ‘My Love Is Your Love’?
I currently assist in running Annex in Shoreditch where I facilitate the art-based activation "Show&Tell".
It's a platform that showcases emerging and established artists, using an easel and having guest speakers to share their journey through their career. It allows the organic connection of artists, lovers of art, collectors, and gallerists in a relaxed environment with raw energy void of hierarchy and gatekeeping.
In addition, I'm releasing Ecstasy products, painting canvases, and doing more murals. Who knows, I may even curate more shows!
Thanks, Mark! Keep up to date with Exhibit69 on Instagram, browse Jealous X Exhibit69 prints now and discover available works from ‘My Love Is Your Love’ here. Coinciding with Big Issue’s 35th Year celebrations, 35% of the proceeds from every artwork sold support Big Issue’s work to end poverty in the UK.
Perfect for Valentine’s Day gifting and a creative date idea, group show ‘My Love Is Your Love’ runs from 12th - 21st February at Jealous, 53 Curtain Road, London, E2 3PT, with a preview night on Thursday 12th February between 6.30 - 8.30pm, supported with drinks from our lovely sponsors Whitebox, Two Tribes and PEAK.
