This free exhibition features a series of new works, Copper Giants (2026), larger-than-life monstrous figures that appear to be drawn from copper rod marking a new sculptural style for Kaur and Melancholy (2026), a series of 100 smaller copper wire figures mounted to the wall, forming an expansive frieze.
As an artist of Punjabi Sikh heritage, many of Kaur’s works touch on the themes of protection and justice inherent within the Sikh faith. A new version of her early work Innocence (1993), which is now part of the Arts Council Collection, has been remade as Innocence II (2026), and provides a dialogue between Kaur’s early artistic output and the new commissions. Night Dress (1995) and Chainmail Dress (1996) addresses the theme of protection, danger and security.
Kaur has invited three local artists to co-create artworks with Wolverhampton community groups for an installation entitled Market Stall. Kanj Nicholas, India Birtwistle and Roo Dhissou are working with Wolverhampton Sikh & Punjabi Women’s Group, Wolverhampton Girl Guides and Wolverhampton City of Sanctuary respectively.
Each group has reflected on things that connect us as inspiration for their work. The resulting artworks are displayed as market stalls within the gallery and act as a symbol for collective memory.
The market stalls will be backed with a special Teddy Bear Wallpaper (2026), created by Kaur, for visitors to colour in.
Celebrated for her striking use of domestic and toylike forms, Permindar Kaur came to prominence in the 1990s through exhibitions including British Art Show 4 (1995), Cold Comfort 1 and Cold Comfort 2 (Ikon Gallery and Mead Gallery, 1996) and Tate’s At Home with Art (1999), as well as international showings in Japan, Australia and the USA. At that time Permindar was loosely associated with both the YBA and Black British Art Movement, and was unusual as a Sikh woman engaged in contemporary visual art and sculpture.
After several years away from the art world raising her family, Permindar returned to making and has enjoyed recent solo exhibitions Nothing is Fixed (John Hansard Gallery, 2024) and Mirror, Mirror (Pitzhager Manor and Gallery, 2025). Her
work Overgrown House currently features in Sculpture in the Park at Compton Verney, Warwickshire.
Councillor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, said: “We are delighted to welcome British artist Permindar Kaur’s largest exhibition of new work to Wolverhampton Art Gallery. The exhibition creates opportunities for local people to contribute and see their own stories reflected through the addition of the community-led Market Stall installation”.
“Dread Naught promises to be thought-provoking and inspiring, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from Wolverhampton and beyond to experience it."
A series of complimentary events are planned, including an artist talk in November 2026 and Study Day in February 2027.
Entry is free.
More information at www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk
Permindar Kaur: Dread Naught is supported by the Henry Moore Foundation and with public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
