'Field Work is an exhibition about a distinct moment in time in Jonathan Michael Ray's life, but it is also an archaeological dig through impermanence. In 2023, Ray spent a month on residency in Orkney and, as an artist who lives and works in Cornwall, the isles of Mainland, Hoy or Rousay at first offered a certain coastal familiarity. However, in his explorations across the sparse Scottish archipelago, a wealth of unforeseen inspiration was revealed. The discoveries he made while on Orkney have led to a body of work rooted to the culture of its unique landscapes, history, folklore, poetry, art and music. These newly conceived works, including wall-based sculpture, assemblage, drawing, and photography are brought together here for the first time.'

The essay is available to read here.

Image: Shroud (2024) by Jonathan Michael Ray.