Wry observations and alternative ways of looking at small daily details categorise printmaker and illustrator Kate Parkin’s work. It’s The Small Things brings moments of fleeting amusement in its reflections on aspects of ordinary life and familiar phrases or words.
Following a career in interior magazines as a stylist and feature writer, Kate studied children’s book design and discovered a love of printmaking, creating a unique and personalised style.
Kate’s style of printing has developed by using everyday things found at home, including cardboard packaging, which she cuts into ‘stamps’ to print her images, which are then used as layers of collage. Her style is bold and simple, reflecting the material she uses and her love of big, visually arresting images.
Kate has a particular skill in presenting bite-size narratives and likes to include elements of suburban life in her subject matter: dogs, domesticity, city and semi-rural landscapes, weather and muddled musings on literal translations of well-known phrases or favourite words.
Although born and bought up in Devon, Kate considers herself an honorary Londoner, having lived more years than she wants to let on in south east London. She works and lives in the green and enchanted Forest (Hill).
Kate Parkin’s website Kate Parkin’s Instagram profileInteract with the exhibition
Beneath some of the artworks there are chalk boards for visitors – young and older – to make their own responses, or leave their own creative imprints for others to enjoy. There is also a specially created Gallery Trail for children to complete.
School and community groups can visit free of charge by pre-booking and can use the exhibition to support Arts Award Discover and Explore. Contact Beccy on 020 7709 8908 or youth@halfmoon.org.uk for more information.
Opening times
It’s The Small Things runs from 20 January-17 April 2023 at Gallery @ Half Moon during the theatre opening hours: Monday – Friday 10am-6pm and on Saturdays from 10am-4pm if there is a show on in the theatre.
Gallery @ Half Moon
Our exciting space for local artists to display their work in the foyer of our children’s theatre
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