1 March 09
www.tate.org.uk
The fourth Tate Triennial demonstrates that we are indeed experiencing the emergence of a global altermodernity... Postmodernism is dead - long live Altermodern!
Gateway-Getaway. Franz Ackermann. 2008
Squeezebox jukebox. Ruth Ewan
Firebird, Rhebok, Badger and Hare. Marcus Coates. 2008
Firebird, Rhebok, Badger and Hare. Marcus Coates. 2008
Line of control. Subodh Gupta. 2008
Nicolas Bourriaud’s grandiose plan to create “an in-progress redefinition of modernity” really does works! Altermodern showcases the work of groundbreaking artists - from stunning installations, video and film works to photography and painting. See the past - see the now - see the future! ...Mr Bourriaud co-founded the influential contemporary gallery Palais de Tokyo in Paris. We visited this brilliant art space in 2008 - read review here!
My favourite pieces from Atermodern are illustrated above. I particularly loved the huge, fully operational, accordion that is central to Ruth Ewan's 'Squeezebox jukebox' installation. Made in Castelfidardo, Italy - this monstrous instrument is played daily at 2pm by amateur musicians. Each tune has been selected by Ruth for its political and idealistic merit, reinforcing the instrument’s unfashionability and links with nomadic, anarchic trouble making! Cumbersome to play, the accordion illustrates the gulf between the desire for social change and the difficulty in bringing that desire to fruition. (Cool - Accordions ROCK)...
