The Digbeth Estate is the new home of ‘No Borders’, a neon art piece by artist and activist Hilary Jack. ‘No Borders’ is now displayed on the roof of The Custard Factory in Birmingham.
‘No Borders’ is an 8 metre x 9 metre neon text piece of a quote from Amelia Earhart, the pioneering American aviator who in 1932 became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Earhart’s words, “NO BORDERS JUST HORIZONS ONLY FREEDOM”, resonates in the politics of today. In her work, Jack reframes Earhart’s words, highlighting their relevance as something to strive for in today’s world.
Hilary Jack is a British artist represented by Division of Labour Gallery. She has exhibited across the UK and Internationally. She is based in Manchester at Paradise Works. Hilary works across media in research based projects, site referential artworks, sculptural installations and interventions. Her work has an activist allows her to comments on the politics of place, socio-political and environmental issues. This is the second UK edition of No Borders. Hilary has exhibited across the UK and internationally and is currently on display at Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Her work is in public and private collections and has recently been acquired by The Government Art Collection, Alnoba Sculpture Park USA and Manchester Art Gallery where it is on long term display in the main atrium.
Hilary Jack said, “I am delighted that an edition of No Borders has been commissioned for the iconic Custard Factory in Birmingham as it is a great location for the artwork. The quotation, “NO BORDERS JUST HORIZONS ONLY FREEDOM“ is borrowed from American pioneer aviator and feminist icon, Amelia Earhart. Her quote resonates in the politics of today and can be read through a contemporary political lens referencing the turbulent times in which we live, regarding the politics of place, physical boundaries, personal ambitions and freedom.“
Clive Watson, Head of Creative at Oval, said, “We are so pleased to be hosting No Borders by Hilary Jack at The Custard Factory. The Digbeth Estate has long championed the creative industry and we can’t wait to share this fantastic piece of work with the city. No Borders encapsulates a powerful message which we feel is important to share.”
*featured image by Benjy Hill from Mama Roux