Art Material-ism

Artist Ian Berry introduces a new creative movement: Art Materialism

Nearly 20 years ago, I sat in a bedroom in Huddersfield and turned a pile of unwanted jeans into art for the first time. There was something about denim that intrigued me, and I developed a technique for cutting the material and then re-making it as collage. I knew I was onto something, so I kept going.

In 2013, I was introduced by my friend the painter Colin Fraser to Catto Gallery. The gallery offered me an exhibition. Thankfully it was a big success, and soon after I toured the world hosting shows and completing commissions. On my travels, I discovered something: I wasn't the only one. There were other artists out there pursuing similar ideas to mine. They too were using unlikely materials – denim, metal, packing tape, even training shoes – as the basis of their work.

Their output could have been dismissed as gimmicky. Instead they were winning acclaim. But they were working independently of each other. I sensed this was a missed opportunity. As I got to know these amazing but unconnected artists, I began to see the potential of bringing them together to do something special.

The result is this show – the first to celebrate what we are calling: Art Materialism.

It is a history-making event. I'm delighted to be part of it. Everything good that has happened in my own art journey has been from another artist helping me. Now I am in a position to put the spotlight on others. It's been a joy getting to know the talented group in this show. I'm sure that, like me, the public will be dazzled by their work.

The exhibitions runs from 19th October – 6th November