ABOUT

Here at RuptureXIBIT we specialize in separating the generative from the commodification of work and challenge hierarchical concepts around how we value work, whose work is valued, how we talk about work, whose opinion about work is valued, and in what way. 

The ethos of Rupture is as follows: commodification and “like-ification” of art work on social platforms has muddied the artist’s brief. Those who are in search of the new are instead bathed in the dopamine stream of creating work which will garner more likes. 

Unfortunately, we like that which we are familiar with, and so there is a “same-ification” occurring across painting at the moment. Rupture believes that one of the few benefits of the Covid pandemic was the complete disruption of the art world: we decided that a rupture had occurred, and in a rupture, the fullness spills out, everything mixes with everything, and boundaries dissolve. 

We choose to stay boundary-free (as much as is possible). To that end, we work to remove financial risk from the artist, allowing them to experiment with showing work that they are unsure of. We discourage prices on our walls, and we are primarily not a shop, but a lab. As a lab (a spaceship, a clubhouse, a workout space) we are interested in artists who believe that the new lies outside of their comfort zone, and we offer a space to go there.

We have deep ties to our local community, who assist in invigilating our shows alongside the artists themselves. We choose our shows based not on the aesthetics of the work but on the strength of creativity and the willingness to push and respond to space in an engaging way.

That said, we believe all artists can and should push and develop their practice. Pushing into the new for you may look very different than pushing into the new for someone else. We are interested in helping you unlock the keys to growing your practice wherever you are in the cycle. We are proud to show all kinds of art, from the conceptual to the traditional. Our concern is, again, not the aesthetics of your practice but that they, you, the concept of your show, and the boundaries of your practice are offered a safe space in which to push, grow, and experiment. 

We welcome all applications. 

***Due to direct increases in our costs, in order to keep our doors open we have unfortunately had to raise our fees. We recognize that this directly impacts artist's ability to mount independent shows, and we are working hard to secure additional funding which will allow us to remove these barriers. Even with this rise in fees, we only cover roughly 1/3 of our operating costs. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.***

  • "Being part of the Lawless Imagination Exhibition was an incredibly enriching experience. The exhibition not only provided a platform for my works but also fostered an engaging community that celebrated creativity without boundaries. I particularly appreciate the immersive and well-curated curation at the front gallery space; it perfectly aligns with the theme of the show. Thank you for bringing it to life. I am honored to be part of this inspiring community and am grateful for the opportunity."

    Feifan, Rupturist.

  • "It’s been a wonderful experience to exhibit at Rupture. It truly is a space for art. I’m especially impressed by the critique session Rupture organized; we got to share insights about our works. It was very supportive and helpful."

    Boyuan, Rupturist.

  • “Being part of the Lawless Imagination exhibition has been a transformative experience for me as a young artist. The gallery team's level of involvement and enthusiasm has left a lasting impression. I wish more galleries embraced such deep exploration of artists' universes and personalities. The atmosphere of involvement was refreshing—where my voice was heard and valued. I felt a sense of responsibility for my work and gained tremendous motivation to continue pushing boundaries. The critique event expanded my perspective on my artistic identity, allowing me the freedom to discuss my art openly. It also sparked a curiosity to explore my work through performance and mixed media. Kate, Sally, and Olivia's dedication to what they do at Rupture is a pure joy and an inspiration. Thank you for creating a space where artists can thrive and be celebrated. This experience has ignited my passion to continue my artistic journey with newfound confidence and creativity.”

    Anna, Rupturist.

FLY THROUGH OF

RuptureXIBIT (+Studio)

MEET OUR TEAM

Kate Howe (they/them)

Artist in Residence and Founding Director of RuptureXIBIT (+Studio)

Kate Howe is an American Artist living and working in London. Their work is the result of a research-based practice that examines relationships to self and others through the lens of longing, loss, power, and control. 

As the founder of Kate Howe Studios and RuptureXIBIT, Kate is the person who stands watch over the excitement that occurs at the studio and gallery whilst they pursue their artistic goals.

Sally Minns (she/her)

Artist in Residence, Gallery Manager and Business Partner

Sally Minns is a London-based Artist and has joined RuptureXIBIT as Kate’s Business Partner, bringing her creative and business experience to the team. Sally will increase the opportunities offered to emerging artists, which include affordable exhibition spaces, mentoring, and residencies.

Whilst growing RuptureXIBIT's links with the local community and London art world; pursuing her own creative practice.

Olivia England (she/they)

Artist in Residence, Communications Director and Studio/Artists Assistant.

Olivia England is a London-based Welsh Artist. As communications director, Olivia runs both Rupture and Kate’s social media accounts and websites, along with the Rupture Newsletter, catalogues and other press releases. Olivia documents all shows through photography and the RuptureXIBIT archive. As gallery and studio assistant, Olivia helps with the day to day running of the studio, as well as working directly with Rupture artists, and as Kate’s artist’s assistant, working with Kate helping create their artwork.