ICONOCLASH by Ian Kirkpatrick at Wentworth Woodhouse: A Bold New Art Exhibition

About

Contemporary artist Ian Kirkpatrick is set to unveil his latest exhibition, ICONOCLASH, at the historic Wentworth Woodhouse in Rotherham. Running from 25 March to 29 June, the exhibition will feature 13 large-scale artworks displayed throughout the stately home’s pillared hall, five state rooms, corridors, and internal chapel.

Historic Setting Inspires Larger-Than-Life Art

Wentworth Woodhouse, one of the largest stately homes in the UK, provides an expansive backdrop for Kirkpatrick’s vibrant and thought-provoking works. The Grade I listed building boasts 365 rooms, 40-foot-high ceilings, and a Palladian façade longer than Buckingham Palace. The venue is managed by a preservation trust conducting a £155 million restoration while promoting art and culture within the community.

Ian Kirkpatrick drew inspiration from the venue’s grandeur during his first visit in 2023, when he experienced Grayson Perry’s The Vanity of Small Differences exhibition. “I realised I could go even bigger and wilder, because I had this English version of Versailles to exhibit in,” said Kirkpatrick.

About ICONOCLASH: Mixing Ancient Symbols with Modern Imagery

ICONOCLASH is a play on the term iconoclasm, reflecting the rejection of traditional beliefs and symbols. Kirkpatrick’s art merges influences from ancient cave paintings, Egyptian hieroglyphics, and Greek vases with contemporary elements like graffiti, emojis, and computer graphics. His pieces often address political and social themes, offering both vibrant and monochrome artworks that range from playful to introspective.

One notable piece, American Gothic, explores Western culture’s anxieties through the lens of a haunted house motif. “Some pieces are very colourful and appeal to children, while others nod to street art,” explained the artist.

From Canada to the UK: Ian Kirkpatrick’s Artistic Journey

Kirkpatrick, originally from Canada, moved to the UK in 2007 with his archaeologist wife. The UK’s strong support for emerging artistic talent helped him transition from graphic design to full-time art. His work is digitally designed and created using industrial materials such as stainless steel, vinyl, cardboard, and Perspex.

His innovative approach allows many of his sculptures to be flat-packed, enabling easy transport to exhibitions across the UK, U.S., and Europe.

Engaging the Community: Workshops and Children’s Art Projects

As part of Rotherham’s status as the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture this year, Kirkpatrick will also host workshops in collaboration with FLUX Rotherham, an Arts Council Creative People and Places programme. These workshops will give young people the opportunity to create an eco-friendly, fantasy-themed poster trail for the town centre, blending local icons with mythical and natural elements.

“I’m looking forward to unleashing their creativity and helping them transform the landscape of their town,” said Kirkpatrick.

Visitor Information

The ICONOCLASH exhibition is included with House and Garden Tickets at Wentworth Woodhouse. For more details and ticketing information, visit the official website.