Ferens Art Gallery to host giant inflatables exhibition

A free exhibition featuring colourful, giant inflatables is coming to Hull.

Are We There Yet? features the work of Wakefield-born artist Jason Wilsher-Mills.

Mr Wilsher-Mills said it includes interactive experiences, exploring themes of disability and popular culture.

The family-friendly exhibition runs from 24 February – 2 June at Ferens Art Gallery.

Mr Wilsher-Mills has used a wheelchair since he was 11 after suffering damage to his central nervous system during a bout of chicken pox.

He said his work “celebrates disability, my northern working-class heritage and popular culture.”

Describing the exhibition, the artist said: “Think I, Daniel Blake meets The Beano.”

Mr Wilsher-Mills told how East Yorkshire had influenced his work.

He said: “As a child growing up in Wakefield, my holidays to Withernsea in the 1970s were the most magical experiences.

“Withernsea was the place I first experienced art when I saw a painting of Dr Who on a fairground ride at the age of six.”

Kerri Offord, curator of art at Ferens Art Gallery, said the exhibition combined the experience of disability with the joy of childhood memories, discovery and escapism.

Councillor Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure at Hull City Council, described the exhibition as “really bold, colourful and exciting”.

Last year, Mr Wilsher-Mills faced complaints after his Amazonian love god statue was unveiled in Wakefield as part of an art trail.

Dozens of people objected to the work, claiming its location by the cathedral was “an affront” to Christianity.

Mr Wilsher-Mills said the sculpture’s central message was “love and hope”.