Viruses is Niki Collier’s first solo exhibition and is a new body of work from a practice that she describes as a ‘conversation on empathy and resilience’. Niki has for a number of years been developing these ideas through a series of textile sculptures inspired by micro-organisms including viruses, germs and reproductive cells such as the Common Cold, Norovirus and AIDS. The scale, visibility and tactility of these felted pieces reflect some of the intangible qualities that evade us in responding to coronavirus. The installation reflects our physical interaction with such micro-organisms; something that is particularly pertinent now as we learn to negotiate space as a virus alters and inhibits our movement.

Programmed prior to the outbreak of Covid-19, this timely exhibition reflects Niki’s long-term focus on microorganisms. Viruses is our featured exhibition to coincide with our annual arts festival Bounce 2020 running from the 4th – 6th of December.

During the festival we’ll host a felting workshop and artist talk, both of which will take place online via ZOOM.

During August 2020 and as part of NI Craft Month, Niki hosted four, weekly workshops for 25 participants, during which the group created pieces, some of which will feature in this exhibition. We would like to thank our participants who have contributed.

University of Atypical continues to operate inline with governmental Covid-19 guidelines, and as such the gallery is currently closed to the public, however you can view the space through the glass wall from our hallway for now.

 Further details of the Bounce Programme 2020 will be announced soon.

We look forward to welcoming you to our online launch from Atypical Gallery on Thursday 5th of November at 5pm.

Niki Collier is a visual artist and maker, originally from Bulgaria, who now lives and works in Marlay Park, Dublin. Her background spans science, technology and art spheres, and is reflected in a connection with materials – primarily wool fibres – that is both decorative and functional. She regularly delivers talks and workshops, including a number for University of Atypical in recent years.

Niki Collier: In conversation

Date: 15 January 2021 • Time: 1pm – 2pm

Join us at the University of Atypical for an informal “in conversation” with artist and maker Niki Collier. This lunchtime talk is a wonderful opportunity to ask questions and get to know more about Niki’s practice.

We hope to host this talk in the gallery however this is subject to change, Covid 19 restrictions depending.

Bounce Festival 2020: Felting Workshop with Niki Collier

Sunday 6th of December, 1pm – 2pm

Felt making, festive decoration workshop to celebrate St Nicholas day. This is an online workshop and to register for a place please fill in the registration form below. We will send participants a workshop pack in advance via the post. Your pack will include almost everything you will need to participate; you will need Zoom, a kettle and water.

Click here for registration form link.