Wolverhampton-based urban sketcher, Ed Isaacs is known across the West
Midlands region for his meticulously detailed drawings focusing on the
concept of place. His art depicts the area where he lives and works, and his
travels beyond the region, as he endeavours to capture the ’genius loci’ or the
spirit of the environment. Isaacs oftens sketches from direct observation later
producing his large scale works in his studio. These initial sketches record the
various journeys the artist takes within the region and further afield.
Drawing Places offers visitors a glimpse into the process behind the artist’s
practice by displaying several of Isaacs’ sketchbooks within the exhibition.
The exhibition uncovers three recurring themes within Isaacs’ work, beginning
with his surreal drawings of local townscapes, imbued with a dreamlike
quality. The introduction of bizarre and out-of-place elements creates a
surreal and fantastical element to these urban scenes. This is followed by
Isaacs’ depictions of sublime seascapes and other imposing nature
juxtaposed with scenes of human detritus such as scrap metal and landfill
sites. Isaacs’ more recent work is an exploration of the rapid documentation of
images bearing witness to contemporary conflict on social media.
Opening on Saturday, December 16, 2023, and running until Sunday, March
24, 2024, visitors will be able to see the in-depth work that has taken place to
capture a moment in time on the artist’s travels. Local visitors will instantly
recognise various scenes across Wolverhampton and the surrounding Black
Country within Isaacs’ work.
City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for Visitor City, Councillor
Bhupinder Gakhal, said: “Seeing the City of Wolverhampton depicted in such
a defined and delicate way is beautiful.
“The works in this exhibition really capture the essence of the city,
surrounding areas, while also drawing attention to what is happening in the
world today.
“There are a number of works that visitors will be able to identify of the city
and I urge everyone to go take a look and take encouragement to draw,

sketch the beautiful scenery of the city or simply what may be on their
doorstep.”
Ed Issacs said: “Nearly 40 years ago I came to Wolverhampton to be
interviewed for a job with the council. After the interview I was asked to stay
on for the rest of the day so I could hear the result. During the break I visited
the art gallery for the first time and have vivid memories of the pop art
collection and also the large Richard Wilson painting of the Falls of Niagara. It
would never have occurred to me that many years later there would be an
exhibition dedicated to my work. I have always valued the city’s art gallery and
feel very honoured to have my drawings and sketchbooks on show there.”

Visitors can see the exhibition at the Lichfield Street-based gallery Monday to
Saturday (10.30am to 4.30pm) and Sunday (11am to 4pm). For more
information on exhibitions, events and activities visit
www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk.