Last chance to see two exhibitions shining a light on incredible individuals linked with Coventry

Monday 9th of May 2022 02:04 PM

Only a few weeks remain to explore two exhibitions shining a light on incredible individuals linked with Coventry.

The thrilling Women in Motorsport at Coventry Transport Museum introduces visitors to the personal stories of women in the automotive industry.

Through interactive elements, aspirational achievements, and historical perspectives, visitors will be able to find out more about the frontrunners of female motorsport and explore their varied roles within the industry. Personal stories, interactive displays, and a glimpse into the future of motor racing await until the exhibition ends on Sunday, May 29. 

Elisabeth Chard-Cooper, Collections Manager at Coventry Transport Museum said: “This exhibition celebrates everything to do with women in motorsport – past, present, hopefully inspiring the future generations of drivers, engineers, and designers.” 

Across the city at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Creative Connections, introduces visitors to internationally celebrated cultural and political figures who were born or are associated with Coventry.

The exhibition features pieces on loan from the National Portrait Gallery, as well as the Herbert’s own collection – including George Eliot, EM Forster, Philip Larkin, The Specials, Mo Mowlam, and many more.  

Alongside recently acquired pieces sits collaborative work by photographer Maryam Wahid and local students from Barr’s Hill school, focusing on the identity of the next generation of Coventry. Creative Connections closes on Monday, May 30. 

Among the individuals featured in the exhibition is Coventry-based artist Lisa Gunn, whose piece Victoria is a mixed media self-portrait which confronts social expectations and assumptions about disabled women.

After being injured during a major road traffic accident as a young woman, Lisa found herself learning to navigate a society that suddenly saw her differently. Responding to a passing comment made about the artist's appearance, Victoria's provocative pose aims to challenge our perceptions of disability, femininity and sexuality. 

Joy Corcec, Communications Officer at Culture Coventry said: “Both exhibitions shine a light on incredible individuals linked with Coventry and we really hope visitors go away empowered by these exceptional stories.” 

Women in Motorsport is FREE for GoCV Cardholders and included in the annual admission. To find out more about the exhibition visit: https://culturespacecoventry.com/women-in-motorsport

Creative Connection is FREE to visit. To find out more visit: https://culturespacecoventry.com/creative-connections-coventry
Find out more about Lisa Gunn here: https://youtu.be/9yKNQ9RF8WM