Sheffield’s adopted son Phlegm has created work on a new, grander scale. Taking over the architecture with his murals and changing the entire field of view with his visuals, he has produced an incredible, immersive sculptural installation. Massive sculptures occupy halls, corridors and rooms of an abandoned factory with their cumbersome bodies. Mausoleum of the Giants is a thrilling extension of Phlegm’s ongoing efforts to intertwine his surreal and highly imaginative work with existing deteriorating structures.
Sheffield as the stage for this epic showcase was no accident. With local industrial buildings often forming the backdrop for his murals in the city, an old factory complex is the perfect location for presenting such a poetic and personal undertaking and bringing Phlegm's iconic characters to life. Imagined as beings whose life spans over thousands of years, these peaceful beasts have seen rivers erode and mountains change. With their final days coming slowly but surely, the giants are ready for their eternal rest, giving everyone enough time to meet them, mourn them and make peace with their ending.
Written by Sasha Bogojev
The exhibition is in Eye Witness Works, an industrial building with uneven floors and no heating, so please wear sensible shoes and wrap up warm!
Entry is free, on a first come, first served basis. Times are subject to change – please check Visit Sheffield's Twitter as they may adjust depending on demand.
The Mausoleum will be open to the public at the following times:
Opening weekend:
Friday 15th 6-9pm
Saturday 16th 11am-6pm
Sunday 17th 11am-5pm
General opening hours:
Wednesday 12-6pm
Thursday 12-8pm (except Thursday 4th April, 12-5pm)
Friday 12-6pm (except Friday 5th April, 12-8pm)
Saturday 11am-6pm
Sunday 11am-5pm
Closed Monday and Tuesday
FAQs:
Q. Can I turn up half an hour before closing time and still get in?
A. You may not gain entry to the exhibition at exceptionally busy times.
Q. How long will it take to queue?
A. At peak times queuing has been taking up to 2 hours – this is mostly outdoors.
Q. How many people can see the exhibition at one time?
A. We take in in groups of around 36 so that people can enjoy the experience without feeling crowded
Q. How long is the dwell time in the exhibition?
A. At busy times the dwell time is 20 minutes.
Q. Can I take photos of the Giants?
A. Yes, please feel free to take photos.
Q. Are any refreshments available?
A. Tea, coffee, hot and cold drinks will be available to purchase once you are in the courtyard of Eye Witness Works.
Q. Are there any toilet facilities at on site?
A. Temporary toilet facilities are available once in the courtyard of Eyewitness Works
Q. Can I visit the exhibition in my wheelchair?
A. We can accommodate manual wheelchairs but not electric or scooters.
Q. Can I bring my baby buggy in?
A. Single baby buggies are fine but we cannot accommodate double buggies.
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