London SE1 community website

The Triumph of Painting Part II at the Saatchi Gallery

Abigail Banks

This second part of Charles Saatchi's celebration of contemporary painting is a compilation of pieces by German artists. They include Dirk Skreber, Albert Oehlen, Wilhelm Sasnal, Thomas Scheibitz, Franz Ackermann and Kai Althoff.

Each artist exercises modern application and technique in their own style. Some range from dark nonrepresentational abstraction to colourful portrait-like renderings. Each artist has his own different style, however abstraction and thought provoking subject can be found as an an underlying theme throughout each section. Though not for everyone this exhibit can be enjoyed as an insightful interpretation of what is going on in the art world today.

If not just to see the art on the walls go to view the beautiful rooms and architecture of the gallery itself. The large rooms are beautifully clean and elegant.

Also, in the middle of the exhibition, be sure to venture down the hall to see the room filled waist high with recycled engine oil. This concept of art, named 20:50, is the creation of Richard Wilson. When you walk to the center of the room, down a plank for viewing, you can see the room's exact replica in the reflecting oil. A word of warning, do not lean over into the substance. This pristine reflection is so perfect you can't even see that you are looking at oil.

Also, be sure to run into one of the Saatchi Gallery staff members outside to recieve a free t-shirt voucher.

The SE1 website is supported by people like you
We are part of
Independent Community News Network
Email newsletter

For the latest local news and events direct to your inbox every Monday, you need our weekly email newsletter SE1 Direct.

Archive
News archive from February 1999 to January 2001
Got a story for us?
Contact us with your tip-offs and story ideas.