Acme Studios — Rutie Borthwick

Supporting Artists since 1972


Rutie Borthwick

Adrian Carruthers Award
2015/16

Rutie Borthwick's sculptural and installation works explore the human form as a receptor, interrogating how the tactile can trigger our fundamental emotions and desires.

Rutie creates immersive den-like structures, made from fabric and latex in pink, corporal tones. These exist as sites of protection and nurture for gallery visitors to explore. For her exhibition at PEER Rutie constructed a fabric environment which was viewable from the street. The large glass window became a space where the protective skin was peeled back, leaving the possibility and vulnerability of exposure.

Rutie was selected by a panel including artist Hew Locke and Heather Deedman (Acme).

After completing her award in September 2016, Rutie presented Wherewithal at PEER alongside fellow early career programme artists Alison Ballance, Hugo Brazão, and Harriet Foyster.

Adrian Carruthers Award

The Adrian Carruthers Award is a partnership between Acme and the Slade School of Fine Art, funded by the Adrian Carruthers Memorial Fund and Acme. Aiming to provide a bridge between art school and professional practice, the award includes a generous bursary, rent-free studio space and a mentoring programme. Recipients of Acme’s Early Career Awards Programme work from shared studios in order to encourage an environment of peer support and critical dialogue.