Unearthed - An Exhibition of New Work
Three artists respond to the Saxon archaeological excavation at Cookham, exploring how objects, materials and traces of making connect us with lives lived over 1,300 years ago.
10am-5pm 12-13th September at Cookham Parish Centre.
Emma Przygrodzka
Artist in Residence at Cookham Abbey, Emma’s ceramic practice explores the relationship between clay, memory and place. Responding to Saxon pottery uncovered through excavation, she is exploring the layers of ground revealed through the dig — the physical traces of time, occupation and human activity held within the landscape.
Through hand-building, mark-making and experimental firing processes, Emma investigates form, surface and texture, reimagining vessels shaped by use, touch and time. Her work explores imperfection, transformation and the traces left behind by human hands, creating a bridge between archaeological objects of the past and contemporary ceramic practice.
Philippa Shire Oudekerk
Guest Artist at Cookham Abbey, captivated by the slow emergence of materials and finds that reveal clues about Saxon life, Philippa’s work begins with observation and response. During the excavation, she documented the site through light-sensitive contact prints made from materials collected on location, creating a starting point for further experimentation.
Her work explores fragments, impressions and fleeting encounters — considering how landscape and material can hold traces of place, memory and discovery.
Sarah Horlock
Guest Artist at Cookham Abbey, inspired by the traces revealed through the cemetery excavation, nearby barrows and churchyard, Sarah’s work explores themes of memorial, record and remembrance. Drawing on archaeological discoveries including the folded coin and lead sheet found in 2023, she works with porcelain to inscribe, fold and pierce delicate forms that echo gestures found within the archaeological record.
Together, these new works form UNEARTHED — an exhibition exploring material, memory and the human traces that endure.
Part of the Cookham & Maidenhead Arts Trail (CAMAT), taking place alongside Cookham’s Heritage Weekend. Make a day of it by exploring contemporary art, archaeology and the village’s rich history.
