4 February 2013

'Mach Mania: An Artist's Portfolio' - Saturday Evening Lecture on 9th February

One of the UK's foremost contemporary artists will discuss the social, cultural and economic importance of creativity during the next instalment of the University of Dundee's Saturday Evening Lecture Series.

David Mach, an alumnus of Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design (DJCAD), part of the University, will discuss his career spanning more than three decades at the University's Dalhousie Building from 6-7pm on Saturday, 9th February. The talk will focus on art in general and on the act of creativity - how it happens, why it is so important, and how its effect is felt in every corner of life.

Born in Methil, Mach says his experiences of growing up in an industrial Scottish town have been instrumental in driving his career.

"I'd find myself drawing things for the class and I'd sell wee things to other kids," he said. "No-one said I was some sort of weirdo - but they made sure I didn't get any airs or graces.

"I grew up with good examples of a work ethic all round me. I'm not a workaholic but I have a good work ethic. One time a gallery approached my studio asking for a commission and one of my staff told them I was too busy. I went ballistic. Because I've got so much on the go I think 30, 40, even 50 ideas ahead of myself."

"I suppose when I was young I had a problem with calling myself an artists so I would justify myself by making stuff that was huge."

A renowned artist and sculptor, Mach made his mark with such well-known works as his 'Big Heids', off Scotland's M8 motorway, and his acclaimed coat hanger sculptures. Nominated for the Turner Prize in 1988, he was made Professor of Sculture at the Royal Academy of Arts in 2000.

Mach recently completed his biggest exhibition to date, 'Precious Light' at the City Art Centre in Edinburgh, in which he displayed over 40 major works based on the King James Bible, and continues to exhibit worldwide.

'Mach Mania: An Artist's Portfolio' takes place at 6pm on Saturday, 9th February in the Dalhousie Building, Old Hawkhill.

The Saturday Evening Lecture Series, which this year celebrates its 89th anniversary, is Scotland's oldest continuous free public lecture series. It attracts thousands of people each year to hear varied and thought-provoking lectures from prestigious, world-class speakers.

This tradition will be continued in 2013, with talks from an exciting line-up of leading figures from the worlds of art, academia, literature and science. Drinks receptions will follow each lecture, and where appropriate, book-signings will be held.

Overflow theatres may be in use, and the main lecture theatre will be filled on a first come-first seated basis on the night so patrons should be sure to arrive early if they would prefer to be seated in the main lecture theatre.

Free tickets for David Mach's lecture are available from the University's Online Store, www.dundee.ac.uk/tickets, by emailing events@dundee.ac.uk, visiting Tower Building Reception, or calling 01382 385564/385108.

For media enquiries contact:
Grant Hill
Press Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384768
E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk
MOBILE: 07854 953277