Essential Art Blog: What's on at the Hayward Gallery

Installation from Space Shifters

drag.JPG

 

What? Drag: Self Portraits and Body Politics

Where? The Hayward Gallery

When? 22 August 2018-14 October 2018 

I really enjoyed the Drag: Self-portraits and Body Politics exhibition at the Hayward Gallery.  I think the idea behind it is really unique and expressive as it was a chance for drag artists to express their creativity as individuals and to be appreciated instead of disregarded.

My favourite piece was i-Drag! by David Hoyle and it was one of the only paintings in the exhibition. I really like this painting because of the almost child-like materials used to create it, like sequins and feathers. It shows the artist’s freedom reflecting his willingness to express his unique and carefree attitude as a drag artist that isn’t afraid of being judged. My only criticism is that the exhibition was very small so in the future they should expand it.  

Review by Miki Fallstrom, Lower Sixth History of Art student.

 

Space Shifters installation

 

What? Space Shifters

Where? The Hayward Gallery

When? 26 September 2018-6 January 2019

The Space Shifters exhibition features contemporary sculptures and installations which challenge our perception of space. The works reflect, distort, multiply, fragment, and enlarge their surroundings, allowing visitors to engage with the gallery visit in new ways. Seeing the world through the lens of these works brings the viewer's attention to their own frame of vision--and maybe to call into question our individual perception. Aside from that, Space Shifters is also a lot of fun, offering a rare experience to interact with artwork in the gallery. The exhibition features work by artists such as Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Ann Veronica Janssens, Anish Kapoor, Yayoi Kusama, and many more. Book in advance as the show sells out quickly. 

Ms Hannah Kroes, History of Art teacher