‘Straw For Nothing’ is an exhibition by Donna Poingdestre , also known as Winniemmay and Justine Hounam. It will be held at the Round Tower in Old Portsmouth on the 3rd, 4th and 5th May. This fabulous show will explore themes of personal experiences of mother and womanhood. The unseen work of the domestic sphere that extends beyond the physical tasks including emotional labour, managing relationships, and resolving conflicts. Investigation of how the experience of caregiver and artist intersects with personal identity.
Justine and Donna met while studying the MA in Fine Art at Central St Martins. They have then joined up to open an artist-led gallery in Highgate London called @bothgalleryldn. It aims to represent emerging contemporary artists and the gallery has just entered its second year. Having achieved so many successes, the hope is to open a sister gallery in Portsmouth.
The exhibition sees a return for Donna living back in the city and the first exhibition for Justine outside of London. Chatting to Justine she said, “I am looking forward to visiting Portsmouth for the first time and delighted to be showing my sculptural work alongside Donna’s paintings at such an iconic venue”.
Donna regularly held exhibitions in Portsmouth when she lived here previously. Some might be able to remember the Lipstick Traces collaboration with Roo Abrook back in 2021 just before she headed off to London, so it is a delight to have the talented artist back on the island.
Talking to the Portsmouth artist, Donna said, “Since meeting Justine we have both been passionate about the prospect of cross-pollinating contemporary art and artists from our respective cities. I am very proud of Portsmouth and its vibrant art scene and what it can offer but also how we can connect the national art scene.”
You can catch the exhibition this weekend at the Round Tower in Old Portsmouth.
PV (all welcome) Friday 3rd May 6pm until 8pm
Open 10-4 pm 4th-5th May
