Suitcase by a.a.s. Image courtesy of the artist.

Eleven artists from the Midlands explore the notion of journeys at Leicester’s City Gallery.

The exhibition, A stranger drifts into town, or someone goes on a journey, on until October 26 2005, is curated by Birmingham-based group a.a.s.

Contributing artists include S. Mark Chubb whose film focuses on three ‘urban cowboys’.

Neil Wiseman, who is based in Leicestershire, made a special pilgrimage to Bologna in Italy to seek inspiration for his work, while Birmingham artists Justin Wiggan and Onna Luras found their inspiration on a much shorter but more arduous journey, walking from their homes to The City Gallery in Leicester.

The Assimilator by Paul Newman. Image courtesy of the artist.

The exhibition represents a raft of different media. An installation by David Miller called photo death consists of a man’s dressing table with photographic self-portraits.

More traditional methods have been employed by Paul Newman in his wall drawing where he tells the story of a man who, by trying to fit into his new surroundings, stands out even more.

Video, painting, photography and installation are all represented. Other participating artists include Corby-based Jason Thomson whose Sleeper Cell work consists of just audio – atmospheric noises such as air conditioning.

Installation of The FuncArt Broadway/ Causeway by FuncArt during exhibition launch. Image courtesy of Func Art/ David Rolls/ The City Gallery.

Work by Maria Malone, Leicester-based Paul Ross, Func Art, Arlene Burnett and a.a.s. is also on display.

The whole show has been put together by a.a.s. who have built a cult following in the Midlands with their shows and live art showcases including Gary Seven, Brain Jelly and We Are Relentless.