A world-first exhibition exploring rave culture and women’s history comes to The Carlton Club

A world-first exhibition from artist Rachel Riggs arrives at The Carlton Club this July.

Ravenous is described as a solo exhibition about being hungry for social change and equality, ‘and all the many things desired in life.’

Featuring original works from the early 90’s rave scene in Manchester, the exhibition captures the art of raving as both ritual and resistance.

Speaking about the work, Rachel says: “Today, we celebrate over three decades of Rave culture, a topic much documented, written and talked about since it exploded and put Manchester on the global map in the late 80s / early 90s. I draw upon this inspirational scene and decades of reflections on women’s social history in my work.”

Through ongoing social historical research and practice, the artist has been exploring the female gaze from a critical perspective, traditionally sidelined and objectified. Rachel uses elements of theatre in her art to delve into what lies behind.

At first, the work appears to be a testament to traditional domestic life. However, as you look closer, uneasy elements are revealed.

Ravenous opens on Thu 20 Jul and to mark the occasion there will be a Q&A between Rachel and Karen Shannon, Chief Executive at Manchester Histories Festival. The discussion will include the colonisation of women on ‘bride ships’ and other aspects of female voices in social history.

An Auction of Suffragettes by Rachel Riggs will also see proceeds donated in full to Manchester Women’s Aid. 20% of proceeds from the sale of all artworks will be donated to Manchester Women’s Aid.

Ravenous will be open at The Carlton Club from Thu 20 Jul – Thu 3 Aug. For more information, head over to The Carlton Club website.