The Glasgow School of Art

The Arbitrary Ritual

An exhibition by Claire Paterson
Reid Ground Floor Corridor

Preview Thursday 14 November 6 – 8pm
Exhibition runs 15 November to 20 December 2019

Claire Paterson is a contemporary painter and graduate of The Glasgow School of Art. The Arbitrary Ritual showcases work inspired by collaborations she undertook while on the 2016-17 Steven Campbell New York Scholarship, which was funded by Creative Scotland, The Saltire Society and The Steven Campbell Trust.

Paterson’s 3-month residency at the International Studio and Curatorial Programme (ISCP) in Brooklyn provided her with an exciting opportunity to work with other artists from around the world, exploring ideas related to the theatrical language embedded in totems and gestures. During the residency, she hosted a series of experimental collaborations, with participants using costume and installation elements to produce tableaus that have something in common with obscure ritualistic and arcane rites.

In keeping with the aims of The Steven Campbell Trust, Paterson also used her time in New York to promote the legacy of Steven Campbell’s work and the contribution he made to the development of Scottish Art on the international stage.