How did we get here? / Where do we go now?’

Acclaimed British photographer Simon Roberts comes to Chester this Spring, with local arts charity, Chester Visual Arts (CVA). Running from 19th May to 30th June at the Grosvenor Shopping Centre in Chester, the exhibition, supported and funded by Arts Council England, showcases the latest works of Simon Roberts, a celebrated visual artist known for his breathtaking tableaux images of the British landscape with a unique perspective on modern life in Britain, reflecting both the lure and challenges of living in a rapidly changing society.

The exhibition ‘How did we get here? / Where do we go now?’ offers a unique opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience this thought-provoking exhibition in the area, in a space outside the typical museum or gallery setting. The showcase will give visitors the opportunity to explore the current state of Britain and the society we live in through his works, whilst presenting the opportunity for the public to contribute to the exhibition.

Composed of two parts; ‘How did we get here?’ showcases various photographic and video works spanning the past 15 years of Roberts’s career; exploring identity, belonging and the complex relationship between history, place, and culture. The second part, ‘Where do we go now?’ allows visitors to participate in a series of workshops and open sessions where they are given a unique opportunity to respond creatively to the current social climate, culminating in a new artwork (The Public Gallery), that will develop over the course of the exhibition.

Roberts’ works, which will be displayed over both floors of the former H&M store, offer a commentary on the social and political issues that we face in our daily lives, questioning the choices that have led us to where we are today.

Together, the two elements of the exhibition will act as a catalyst for open discussion about the function of the British High Street as the future use of urban spaces is increasingly debated.

From exposing our post-imperial predicament, the complications of New Commonwealth immigration, and the Brexit schism, to the possibilities of UK devolution and the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic, all of which are representative of the thought-provoking work which Roberts produces, that touches on prevalent and contentious issues.

The cultural and social value of art cannot be overstated. Art has the power to inspire, challenge, and provoke thought, and it can have a lasting impact on individuals and communities.

Launched in 2016, local art charity, Chester Visual Arts set a clear vision to bring world-class art to Chester, positioning the city and wider region as a leading cultural destination, creating a better place to live, work and visit. This exhibition is the 5th show that CVA has brought to the city, which has provided refreshing art and discussions to the public and attracted over 50k visitors to date.

‘How did we get here? Where do we go now?’ promises to be an unmissable event for art lovers and anyone interested in exploring the current state of society. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Simon Roberts’ latest works, gain a fresh perspective on the world we live in, and contribute to the public art piece, a space for your voice to be heard.

You can find tickets for the Simon Roberts Exhibition on the Eventbrite Website.