Soil

v. to defile or pollute with sin
n. the earth or ground

'Society, like a house, does not start at ground level, but begins quite literal beneath the surface of the planet, within the soil itself. For out of the soil are we fashoned, and by the products of the soil is our earthly condition maintained. If we destroy our soil - and it is not indestructable - humankind will vanish from the earth ...' E. B. Balfour, The Living Soil (1942)

Soil. A stand alone term ambiguous in meaning. How do we relate to it? What do we make with it?

Both literally and metaphorically we grow from soil. 'Without those precious centimetres of topsoil, there would be no plants, no animals, and definitely no humanity.'* That means culture, in its many forms, is dependent on soil. Both art and science emerge from soil and, to evoke a traditional funeral rite, they will return to it.

In the meantime there's much to learn from soil. Hence in this exhibition we present the scientific research of SIMBIOS Centre, Abertay University, and their ongoing investigation into the complexity of soil structure alongside the work of seven artists variously responding to soil-related themes, including the emergence of plant life, agricultural practices and current policy on sustainability.

Rich in possibility like soil itself, this exhibition provides a growing space and a platform for further discussion. Includes live art, workshops, a film programme, and research hub. See HMC website for full programme details.

(*Barbara Griggs, Reinventing Eden: The past, the present and the future of our fragile earth (2001))

Artists: Jonathan Baxter, Stefanie Bourne, Dalziel & Scullion, Sarah Gittins, Jan Hendry, Ashley Nieuwenhuizen, and the SIMBIOS Centre, Abertay University.

Co-curated with Clare Brennan.

As part of Dundee Live there will be performances on Mon-Thurs between 12.30-1.30pm and an evening of performance on the 15th July. Booking essential for the event on the 15th: email www.exhibitions@abertay.ac.uk.

What: Sculpture, video, print, and performance.
Where: Hannah Maclure Centre, Abertay University, Top Floor, Abertay Student Centre, 1-3 Bell Street, DD1 1HP.
When: 14th June - 19th August / Dundee Live Performances 11th-14th July 12.30-1.30pm and 15th July 7-8.30pm.