Considering himself to be more a curator of this exhibition than claiming the art as his own, Turner prize winner Jeremy Deller advertised in music paper Melody Maker for material related to the Welsh band Manic Street Preachers back in 1997. What he ended up with is the exhibition, “The Uses of Literacy” filled with paintings, collages, drawings, books, poetry and paraphernalia all by fans of the band. This exhibition reverses the role of public and artist by showing the work of amateurs on the walls of the all knowing galleries.

The Manic Street Preachers have always expressed the importance of art and literature when it comes to the band, the album sleeves and merchandise frequently displaying quotes or works of art. The work by the fans bridges the gap between performers and audience, as the work of the Preachers generates fans, who go on to be inspired enough to create art for the band.

An important piece of Deller’s early work created before he won the 2004 Turner prize for his film based in George W. Bush’s hometown,”Memory Bucket”, this exhibition clearly shows his belief in collaboration and participation. Not convinced he has any technical skills at traditional forms of art, his work compromises film, orchestrated events and publications.

With help from the £20,000 grant from independent charity The Art Fund the work is now an acquisition of The Arts Council Collection-notable for owning important early works by influential British artists.

Andrew Macdonald, Acting Director of The Art Fund, said: “This artwork, by one of the UK’s leading contemporary artists, offers an original take on popular culture and the music industry. We are delighted to have helped make it part of the Arts Council Collection, making it accessible to people all over the country.”

The Uses of Literacy goes on display at Yorkshire Sculpture Park this Saturday, 6 June until Sunday 28 June. For more information visit www.ysp.co.uk.

All images courtesy of Jeremy Deller.

Words: Alexandra Rochester