the blue chamber.
Humans on the whole are inquisitive. We look for new experiences, places and people even if that means taking a chance, testing the water or just plunging in and hang the consequences. We also can't help telling others of what we saw or who we met sharing our adventures, telling the story of a film we've just seen, or the plot of a book we've just read. The public here too are intrigued for a glimpse into the past and many visit Duff House to experience the lives and surroundings of previous residents. Their visit allows them to wander, examine and snoop into the rooms, where they become confronted by an array of objects and fine art. Perhaps they are unsure of what to expect. Perhaps they linger. Perhaps they quickly go from room to room. "The Blue Chamber" is an exhibition about this human condition: the need for search and research; the need for exploration and possibly risk- sometimes our yearnings and travels end in disaster; sometimes our desires take us beyond our wildest dreams and imaginings.
In the North-east of Scotland there are no contemporary exhibition spaces: the places where we expect to see the work of these artists, we have to use other available and willing locations. Duff House has recently broadened its programme of exhibitions to include a range of exciting contemporary projects, and so encouraging new audiences to experience both the work and the house. The uniqueness of the venue and the essence of showing contemporary artwork in a historical setting creates an exciting and stimulating experience for both the showing artists and the potential viewing audience. It is hoped that the exhibition attracts a broad audience, in terms of both geography and demographics.The exhibition has had a long preparation period and I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in the project, particularly the artists and writer, Claire Barclay, Annie Cattrell, Ross Sinclair, Kenny Hunter, Gareth Fisher, Jessica Stockholder and Duncan McLean, who all entered into it with great spirit, understanding and belief. I also want to thank all the staff at Duff House, particularly Claudia Zeiske, Charles Burnett, Jenny Reid, John Mair, Jo Edwards and Josephine Anthony for their support and assistance.
Iain Irving
Curator
