Down the Hatch
Jo Lathwood

Down the Hatch is a new exhibition by Bristol-based artist Jo Lathwood, where British pub culture meets storytelling from a queer perspective. Pubs have long been central to communities in the British Isles—lively, intimate spaces that shape our towns and villages. Lathwood explores the origins of pub names and signs, uncovering the hidden narratives behind these familiar symbols.

The tradition of pub signs dates back to Roman times when a simple vine branch marked places to drink. British alehouses later developed their own visual language, using hanging bushes, boots, horns, and other symbols to signify gathering spaces. By the 12th century, painted signs became a legal requirement, offering visual cues to an often illiterate population. These signs, inspired by royalty, local trades, folklore, and historic events, became an enduring part of British culture.

A key inspiration for this exhibition is the history of Ale Wives, the pioneering female brewers of medieval Britain. These women, often depicted in pointed hats, were the original alchemists — skilled brewers long before brewing became male-dominated and industrialised. For many, especially single, widowed, or elderly women, brewing provided a crucial source of income. However, as brewing became more profitable, women were pushed out of the trade, and their contributions were largely erased.

At East Quay, Lathwood presents a large-scale installation featuring bespoke structures that house a series of films. These immersive works explore the historical and cultural significance of pub signs, the legacies of Alewives, and the craftspeople integral to life in Somerset past and present. Visitors are invited to step into these evocative spaces and reflect on the connections. 

The structures in Down the Hatch challenge conventional architectural experiences, creating spaces that feel both familiar and otherworldly — like a den or a cosy pub on a rainy day. Some designs require visitors to bow their heads while watching a film, mimicking the action of peering into a well. These subtle shifts blur the line between passive viewing and active participation, making the experience personal and immersive.

At the heart of Lathwood’s practice is a commitment to environmental sustainability. Every material in this exhibition is either recycled or repurposed, ensuring the work embodies resourcefulness and re-use. Down the Hatch shines a light on the often-forgotten figures of British history, celebrating their ingenuity, perseverance, and cultural significance. 

More information coming soon.

Header image: Drawing by Jo Lathwood, courtesy of the artist