Gallery Oldham to host unique exhibition powered by the sun

Gallery Oldham will host a unique exhibition featuring artwork powered by the sun over the coming months.

Artist Alexandre Dang has displayed his dancing Solar Flowers around the world in art galleries and at festivals and they have become an iconic piece of artwork and showcase his commitment to renewable energy.

Now, they will be on display at Gallery Oldham from March 14 until June 13 for locals to admire and after the exhibition the flowers displayed will be on sale from the Gallery shop.

Dang was born in Strasbourg in 1973 and now lives and works in Brussels. He is from a scientific background and uses solar energy to animate his kinetic art works whilst also raising awareness of the potential of environmentally friendly technologies.

He said: “For me flowers embody the beauty of nature. In my work, I have tried to give them a playful, a poetic and a funny dimension by giving them a movement of dance thanks to solar energy.

“In the morning the flowers start dancing, then at the end of the day, the movement slows down and they stop each night. In the presence of clouds, the light intensity decreases and the flowers slow down.

“Each flower moves its own way according to the light it receives.

“Beyond their aesthetic dimension, my works also invite the public to a questioning about the use of energy today and about their energy perspectives. Energy is an issue that represents a major challenge for the future of humanity.”

Councillor Jean Stretton, Cabinet member for Town Centres, Culture and Tourism, said: “We are delighted to welcome an artist of Alexandre’s standing to Oldham.

“His displays have not only been seen across the world but they also highlight the issue of renewable energy which is important to us all.”

Visitors to the exhibition will also be able to learn more about Generation Oldham – a council initiative aimed at encouraging community groups to go green and create their own energy.

The project brings together sustainability, lower energy costs for community buildings, and opportunities for communities to work together for mutual benefit.

This community-owned approach to renewable energy will help to reduce demand for council services, and encourage residents to get involved.

Find out more about Gallery Oldham and the exhibition on their website.

For more information about Generation Oldham and to get involved please contact policy@oldham.gov.uk