VISUAL ARTS: ACE! Hayward Gallery
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.ACE! Hayward Gallery, London (0171-960 4208) to 1 Dec. Then touring to Ikon Gallery, Birmingham, Mappin Gallery, Sheffield, Angel Row Gallery, Nottingham, and Ormeau Baths Gallery, Belfast.
The Arts Council Collection is 50 this year. Founded in 1946 "with the aim of showing innovative work by British artists through touring exhibitions and loans", they are celebrating with ACE!, a touring show of 42 of the 260 artworks they have bought for the nation since 1989.
The collection has been accused of following the whims of influential dealers and curators. While this latest selection seems, initially, like a deliberate rebuff to such criticism, the six years in view do cover the rise of the so-called Britpack, whose work attracts more hype and fluster with each showing.
Michael Craig-Martin, patron saint of the Goldsmith's School of Art, is represented by his big red History Painting. Gary Hume, one of many Goldsmith's graduates, by Moonbeam Rising and Antony Gormley by his little clay army Field for the British Isles.
Wit, according to the blurb accompanying the show, is the common factor. But wit on its own is not enough. Often the joke is on us.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments