The present has an afterlife is a degree exhibition of layered realities, perspectives and approaches to creating contemporary art in a world where it is increasingly difficult to focus and slow down.

More often than not, slowing down is a prerequisite for materials-based practices. Acutely aware of the swift and unrelenting arrow of time, the 18 graduating artists invite us to pay close attention and immerse ourselves in a constellation of worlds within worlds.

Within these worlds are poetic reflections and warnings that collectively remind us to take better care of what we have, in order to create a more perfect future.

Running the gamut from humorous to deeply serious, the artworks in this exhibition touch on themes such as the more-than-human, healing, obsessive material exploration and the importance of play.

The artworks are anchored in the past, present and speculative future – all of which are deeply connected.

This year’s degree exhibition is also treading into uncharted territory. For the first time in many years, the final Master’s-level presentation of the school of Arts and Crafts is primarily presented at an external institution.

Collected at UKS are works by all the graduating artists from the departments of Printmaking and Publishing, Metal and Jewellery, Ceramics, Textile, and Art and Public Space.

In addition, two site-responsive satellites are presented at Black Box (KHiO) and Sculpture Park at Norsk Billedhoggerforening.