Bridgestone tyres were recently featured as art in a UK contemporary exhibition, highlighting the company’s innovative approach
London-based artist Madeleine Ruggi has created a body of work inspired by Bridgestone’s Bulldog retread plant in Bourne, presented in an exhibition titled Soft Landing. The exhibition was available to the public at Palmer Gallery last month and is scheduled for another showing during Frieze Art Fair week in London this October.
The display features a 44-minute immersive sound sculpture called Distress Purchase, two wall-based sculptures, and a print, all incorporating materials from the plant such as retread rubber and audio recordings captured on-site.
In 2024, Madeleine visited Bridgestone’s factory in Lincolnshire, where she toured the facility with members of the team, including plant manager Dan Edwards. The visit provided her with materials, field recordings, and information that contributed to her artistic process.
According to Madeleine, her artistic practice involves utilising industrial materials encountered in manufacturing environments, with the aim of drawing attention to their role in modern life. She noted that her experience at the factory offered insight into production processes, skilled labour, and the structure of materials like tread rubber.
Known for examining elements of global trade infrastructure, including shipping and haulage systems, Ruggi’s work examines industrial contexts and their significance in society.
Andy Mathias, Bridgestone’s Head of Marketing, recognised the collaboration; “To see our products interpreted in this way is a new experience for us and marks the first time Bridgestone’s Bulldog retread materials have been included in a public art installation.”
Soft Landing can be viewed free of charge and will return to London in October during Frieze Art Fair week. Further information will be announced.
For details about the tyre exhibit and Madeleine’s work, visit www.madeleineruggi.com or https://palmergallery.co.uk/exhibitions/26-soft-landing-exhibition-10/overview/.
