Experience the compelling short film “Which Way Now?” by artist Corbin Shaw and photographer Alasdair McLellan at the Site Gallery’s Studio I from July 5 to July 14. This evocative film delves into the essence of boyhood and the contemporary challenges faced by young people in South Yorkshire.
Table of Contents
An Exploration of Boyhood in Post-Pandemic South Yorkshire
“Which Way Now?” offers a poignant look at the lives of young people navigating the post-pandemic landscape. Amid rising living costs, many youths remain confined to their family homes, missing the freedom and adventures that typically characterize their formative years. This film captures the essence of this “suburban purgatory” where escape seems elusive.
Shaw and McLellan engage with boys aged 15-25 from South Yorkshire, providing a platform for them to share their aspirations, dreams, and strategies for coping with their mundane reality. Through a 15-minute looped screening from 11 am to 5 pm daily, visitors can immerse themselves in the authentic stories of these young individuals.
About Corbin Shaw
Born in 1998 in Sheffield, Corbin Shaw is a British artist now based in East London. His work focuses on deconstructing the complex realm of masculinity using a variety of mediums. Shaw’s upbringing in a South Yorkshire ex-mining town significantly influences his exploration of masculinity, challenging traditional stereotypes and reimagining masculine icons and objects.
In his fourth solo show “Little Dark Age” at Incubator in Marylebone, Shaw delves into modern British identity through ancient crafts, questioning the meaning of tradition and what it means to be ‘English’ today. His work continues to push boundaries and provoke thought around the constructs of masculinity and identity.
About Alasdair McLellan
Alasdair McLellan, a British photographer known for his sensitive and emotive approach to photography, brings a profound narrative depth to his work. His portfolio spans portraiture, fashion, landscape, and documentary, characterized by a blend of high and low references and a strong pop culture influence. McLellan’s work explores themes of gender, sexuality, and identity, rooted in his own experiences growing up in Doncaster, South Yorkshire.
Preferring the tactile nature of film photography over digital, McLellan’s style resonates with a new generation of photographers. His extensive career includes work for prestigious fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, Burberry, Calvin Klein, and Gucci, as well as directing music videos for artists like the Pet Shop Boys and the xx. His published works and celebrated campaigns have cemented his status as a significant figure in contemporary photography.
About Site Gallery
Site Gallery in Sheffield is a hub for contemporary art, specializing in new media, moving image, and performance. Known for pioneering emerging art practices, Site Gallery collaborates with local, regional, and international partners to support artistic talent and foster the development of contemporary art.
Supported by Arts Council England’s NPO Investment Programme and Sheffield City Council, Site Gallery works with artists at various stages of their careers to commission new works, produce solo and group exhibitions, and deliver residencies, performances, events, and community programs.
Notable artists who have recently collaborated with Site Gallery include Elizabeth Price, Rafael Rozendaal, Phoebe Davies, Sonya Dyer, Sophia Al-Maria, Georgina Starr, and Susan Hiller.
One of Site Gallery’s key initiatives is the Society of Explorers, a peer-led group for young people that creates unique connections with artists and provides opportunities for learning and skill development throughout the year.
Final Points
“Which Way Now?” is a significant artistic endeavor that sheds light on the contemporary experiences of youth in South Yorkshire. Through the eyes of Shaw and McLellan, viewers are invited to engage with the raw and unfiltered realities of these young individuals, making it a must-see event at Site Gallery this July.
