Polly Merredew and I, both studio holders here at Coventry Artspace, have been delighted to work together on curating a small exhibition of ‘rejected’ works on Floor 4 at Eaton House called Remembering Why. Our very own Salon Des Refusés, the show which launched at the start of May and will run into the summer of 2025 features work by Coventry Artspace associated artists Elizabeth Connolly, Clint Hamilton, Paul Lemmon, Polly Merredew and Adele Mary Reed.
This exhibition is a love letter to all the art pieces who were told they weren’t good enough. Remembering why they were made to begin with, by the artists who felt compelled to create them. Rejection is a widely accepted part of being an artist, but how do we reconcile the feeling of heartbreak when what we believe to be beautiful isn’t reflected by the judging panel?
Come and visit on Floor 4 of Eaton House on Mondays (excluding Bank Holidays) 11am-1pm, at First Thursdays 1pm-2.30pm or at other times by appointment by emailing me at adelemreed@yahoo.co.uk.
Many thanks to Lauryn Dunn for supporting us to plan the show and hang the work.
Alongside the exhibition we are airing our thoughts, feelings and reactions to rejection on a ‘line’ and inviting visitors to add to it. We are also planning to record a podcast discussion between the artists involved to explore the themes more deeply.
Here are some photos from our lovely mini- private view where we were delighted to welcome Coventry City Council’s Head of Culture and Creative Economy Salla Virmin, as well as lots of friends, family and fellow artists from the city.
Written by Adele Mary Reed, May 2025