Life of Rock Ferry artist Emma Burrows is celebrated in new show at the Williamson Art Gallery

Oct 29 2008 by Carrie Catterall, Birkenhead News

emma burrows

A SHOW at the Williamson Art Gallery is celebrating the life of a Rock Ferry broadcaster and artist.

Vida! has attracted hundreds of people with its stunning display in memory of Emma Vida Stardust Burrows.

The multimedia exhibition, organised by a team of arts specialists from across the North West, opened on September 26 and will close on Sunday (November 2).

It explores the life and times of Emma, who died in 2004 aged 27, and includes film, animation, photography, fine art, illustration, graphic design, architecture, curating and performance art.

Despite lifelong health problems arising from diabetes, Emma worked during her career with Tate Liverpool, Radio Merseyside, Liverpool Biennial, and North West Disability Arts Forum.

Lewis Biggs, Director of the Liverpool Biennial, said: “Her irrepressible energy and determination to take as much pleasure in life as possible was a wonderful example to other artists.”

Emma’s own work included fine art, illustration, animation and photography.

VIDA! is showcasing Emma’s own work in a specially created “Cumfy Bit”, where visitors can browse through her sketchbooks and view Everyday Face, a video self-portrait.

As a teenager, during her A-levels at Birkenhead Sixth Form College, she drew on experiences of being bullied for her artwork.

The exhibition in her memory includes some of these powerful offerings, including a sketch of a school marked “Arrive before the meanies can get me.”

It also features work from artists who have lived, worked or studied in the region to celebrate her impact, influence and inspiration.

A rich programme of events has been taking place around the exhibition including drop-in activities, talks by artists, and workshops for the public and schools.

Many of the artworks will be auctioned to raise money for Juvenile Diabetes UK.

For more information call 652 4177.