Jonathan Baldock's 'Held' Transforms Arnolfini into Immersive Wilderness

This summer, Bristol's Arnolfini will host 'Held', a significant solo exhibition featuring Jonathan Baldock, recognized as one of the UK's most unique contemporary artists. This event represents an important milestone in his twenty-year career and aligns with his increasing acclaim throughout the UK and Europe. The exhibition showcases a vibrant array of ceramics, textiles, and sculptures, all deeply influenced by Baldock's lifelong bond with nature. His artistic approach is informed by traditional skills in sewing, model-making, and handcraft, inherited from his mother and grandmother, reflecting their working-class backgrounds. A standout piece, 'Bear Hug', a bear sculpture, encourages tactile interaction, balancing feelings of comfort and strength, while the exhibition transforms the gallery into a lively, immersive natural landscape inspired by folklore.