Larry Achiampong: Wayfinder

20 May-29 Oct 2023

Baltic Centre For Contemporary Art, Gateshead

Baltic is proud to present the inaugural major solo exhibition by British-Ghanaian artist Larry Achiampong. Renowned for his proficiency in film, sculpture, installation, sound, collage, music, and performance, Achiampong taps into his collective and personal heritage to delve into the realms of class, gender, the convergence of popular culture, and the lingering impacts of colonization. His body of work scrutinizes digital identities and the construction of 'the self,' providing diverse perspectives that unveil the deeply ingrained inequalities within our society.

Situated in our Level 3 gallery, the exhibition showcases the commissioned feature-length film "Wayfinder" (2022). This cinematic creation follows the bold journey of a young girl across England, spanning from Hadrian’s Wall in the North to Margate in the South. The film, set against the backdrop of a pandemic, stands as Achiampong's most ambitious to date, contemplating themes of class, economic exclusion, belonging, displacement, cultural heritage, and the essence of home. Complementing this centerpiece is the largest UK presentation of the artist’s multidisciplinary project "Relic Traveller" (2017–ongoing), which incorporates sculpture, photographs, video, and a gaming room on Level 2.

About Baltic Centre For Contemporary Art

Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art is dedicated to curating and producing exhibitions, activities, and opportunities that delve into our understanding of the world through diverse contemporary art by artists hailing from across the globe. Nestled on Gateshead quayside, our expansive 2,600 square metres of exhibition space are committed to showcasing the art and artists shaping today and tomorrow.

Admission to Baltic is free of charge, welcoming visitors year-round to engage with art, talks, performances, and activities in our accessible building. Since our opening in July 2002, we have played host to over 8 million visitors. Beyond our physical space, we actively connect and exchange with local communities, individuals, and groups, fostering creativity, social connections, and shared hospitality.

In early 2022, we achieved the distinction of becoming the first Gallery of Sanctuary in England. This recognition reflects our commitment to supporting forced migration communities in the North East.