<P>Bashed and battered, some play out a beat while others just stand alone and proud. These steel figures, built on a life-scale are somewhat eerie but engaging. </P>
<P>Being created from steel and other everyday materials means the sculptures seem to be shaped by some great force while retaining the vulnerability of the human forms they represent.</P>
<P>This sculpture exhibition in the interactive Artworks area takes the visitor on a journey which includes videos about the artist’s work and influences as well as educational materials. But for me it was the faceless figures which left a lasting impression and created a rather disconcerting feeling. </P>
<P>The mechanisation of the sculptures also adds to this slight discomfort as drummers beat out their rhythms to attract the viewers into the show and perhaps send a message out to the crowd. The mechanics plus the interactive elements in the gallery will probably make this exhibition a hit for children who will also get a chance to see the exhibits of toys made from wire by youngsters in Africa. </P>
<P>The toys, just like the sculptures show how items of beauty can be fashioned from materials which look as if they could have been re-claimed from things discarded by others. </P>
<P>Although much of Sakari Douglas Camp’s work involves deeply personal events and experiences, she does reach out to an audience who could appreciate her work from whatever culture they come. For me the most successful of these pieces was Motorbike – a mis-mash of steel and humanity taking a journey which was probably of necessity but could just as easily have been for fun.</P>
<P>Overall this is a thought-provoking show which can also be an enjoyable educational experience for youngsters.<?xml:namespace prefix = o /><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
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<P><A href="mailto:sarah.hartley@manchesteronline.co.uk">Sarah Hartley</A></SPAN></P>
<P><STRONG>Did you see the exhibition? Why not write us a review and email it <A href="mailto:webnews@manchesteronline.co.uk">here</A>.</STRONG></P>
<P>Imagined Steel is at Artworks, The Lowry until Sunday, October 27. Admission is £3.75 or £10 for a family ticket. </P>
