Ming
Jue is a reference to the re-branding of MG Rover since its move from
the Longbridge plant in Birmingham to the new site for production in
Nanjing, China. Originally 'Morris Garages', MG now translates as 'Modern Gentleman'.
Stuart Whipps began to document the MG Rover plant in Longbridge in
2004. In 2005, the 6,000+ staff were informed of its temporary closure.
Most never came back. What started as an attempt to explore the
relationships between the factory, the workers and the town, became a
poignant study of absence and change.
The production of MG Rover has now been transferred to Nanjing, China and Stuart has photographed the rapidly developing site.
Though relating to a very specific context Stuart’s photographs
present a timely commentary on familiar contemporary issues such as the
development of a globalised economy, the decline of heavy industry in
the Western world and shifts in centres of industrial production.
Importantly, his work is testimony to the implications of these changes
in human terms. His photographs, though never didactic, hint at loss,
betrayal and the disintegration of communities.
Published to accompany the exhibition Ming Jue at The New Art Gallery Walsall, 4 April – 1 June 2008. With essays by Pete James and Dr Tim Strangleman.