The New Contemporaries exhibition celebrates its 75th anniversary at the ICA, showcasing innovative works by emerging artists. Highlights include Hazel O’Sullivan’s captivating painting ‘Sidhe’ and Yang Zou’s poignant video exploration of contemporary Russia. The exhibition demonstrates a blend of original talent and compelling themes, revitalising interest in the arts.
Last year’s New Contemporaries exhibition was overly introspective, but the current one invigorates with art that engages the senses, celebrating its 75th anniversary at the ICA. Once central to London’s art scene, the ICA now needed a boost, making this showcase even more significant.
A standout work is Hazel O’Sullivan’s ‘Sidhe,’ a striking painting blending vivid colours and intricate perspectives. It captivates through its depth and complexity, inviting viewers into a visual exploration that evokes themes of communication and spirituality, reminiscent of both medieval art and the mystical lore of the Book of Kells.
The large gallery features sculptures from Beverley Duckworth and Valentino Vannini. Duckworth’s ‘Residue,’ formed from old clothes sprouting green seedlings, pays homage to arte povera and contemporary sculptural traditions. Vannini’s concrete phalluses, referencing gay cruising, blur lines between organic and geological forms, offering provocative yet developing insights into sculpture.
Yang Zou’s video ‘I Love You, Life, I Hope it’s Great Again’ stands out not as a conventional artwork but a poignant cultural exploration. Documenting his Trans-Siberian journey through contemporary Russia, he reveals the struggles of its people while juxtaposing naive observation against the stark realities of life in Putin’s era.
Overall, the exhibition showcases youthful talent with O’Sullivan and Zou emerging as notable artists. Their works overshadow more conventional pieces, demonstrating a blend of skill, humour, and genuine artistic exploration that revitalises the New Contemporaries platform.
New Contemporaries is an annual exhibition designed to highlight emerging artists in the early stages of their careers. This particular showcase marks its 75th anniversary and is notable for its location at the ICA, an important venue with a legacy of presenting innovative artworks. The exhibition aims to identify and promote promising talent within the contemporary art scene.
The latest New Contemporaries exhibition is a refreshing addition to the art scene, highlighting original and dynamic works, especially by artists like Hazel O’Sullivan and Yang Zou. While it displays a range of talent, some pieces resonate more profoundly than others, suggesting a bright future for these emerging stars in the arts.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com