HIDDEN is an annual exhibition celebrating the creative work of the technical and non academic staff at the Royal College of Art. These staff members have a wealth of knowledge and skills and are a hidden talent within the college. HIDDEN is an opportunity to showcase some of their most innovative creative work which, in previous years, has included jewellery and furniture design, painting and sculptures, handmade bespoke cars and interactive virtual reality work.
HIDDEN began in 2003 and ran for several years before being re-established in 2017. During this time, hundreds of artists and designers throughout the college have displayed their work, attracting exhibitors from all corners of the college, including technical instructors, canteen staff and librarians. The exhibition also has a rich history of showcasing well known designers work such as Natacha Marro, Liam Reeves and Jake McCombe.
Each show is captured through the bespoke visual identity and poster which has always been designed and printed by Letterpress Monster, Ian Gabb. His bold typographic designs playfully capture the idea of being ‘hidden’ and are an integral part to the show. The following images are a selection of posters from this year’s show and previous years.
This year, for the first time, HIDDEN will take place online due to ongoing Covid-19 restrictions. The pandemic has given us all a unique opportunity to work in different ways – creating work in a new environment, using different methods, developing a new practice or perhaps not making any work at all. This special edition of HIDDEN promises to celebrate artwork made during a challenging time for many, as we adapted to a new way of living, working and making. We also have a small selection of artwork on display in the RCA Library in Kensington. Please see the map below for more details.
HIDDEN is a unique opportunity to see the range of work produced by the talented technical staff that are the backbone of the RCA. They provide support for many of the students and their exhibition continues to be a highlight in the Royal College of Art’s annual calendar of events. For more information about HIDDEN email hidden@rca.ac.uk.
HIDDEN 2021 is dedicated to Martin Salmon.