From: Kirklees Cultural Services Publicity Unit
Release Date: 7 April 1999

Huddersfield Art Gallery, Princess Alexandra Walk, Huddersfield
Tel: 01484 221964 Fax: 01484 226342
Saturday 15 May - Saturday 19 June
Admission FREE

If you have ever wondered what happens to computers once they have been trashed, an exhibition at Huddersfield Art Gallery wilt give you one answer.

The Redundant Technology Initiative exhibition, which runs from Saturday, I5 May, until Saturday, 19 June, transforms unwanted computers into works of art.

TEST the digital arts facility at Kirklees Media Centre, have financed the creation of the new "Landfill" installation following an ongoing relationship with the Sheffield-based organisation, Redundant Technology Initiative.

Kirklees Media Centre have helped to get local businesses and individuals involved in the RTI art-making process and RTI has received donations of comp:wuter technology from several individuals and companies in the Huddersfield area The exhibition will present further opportunities to get involved on specially advertised open days at the gallery.

Redundant Technology Initiative is a national organisation rapidly gaining a high profile for its work.

"The RTI exhibition deals with issues surrounding the explosive growth of information technology, accelerated redundancy, consumerism out of control, environmental issues and the reconfiguration of post-industrial communities into the information society," explained James Wallbank, artist and RTI project co-ordinator.

"Over 2700 computers every day are disposed of by UK companies updating their networks. Most of these computers are simply used as landfill or dumped in gravel pits and tips across the country. RTI is trying to encourage companies to donate their computers for use in an innovative, creative recycling project."

The RTI team will be resident at the gallery to work with young people and anyone interested in discovering how their 'low-tech' computer at home or work can be used to access some of the most sophisticated data on the Internet. There is also the chance to make art, donate old and unwanted technology to the team and find out how to put your computer to better use.

ENDS

For further information please contact Jenny Hall or Gordon Pettit, tel: 014634 221962/221964, or Isabel Ibeson, Press and Information Officer; tel: 01484 226330.

Kirklees Metroploitan Council
Cultural Services
Red Doles Lane
Huddersfield
West Yorkshire
HD2 1YF

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