- Venue
- White Cube, Mason's Yard
- Location
The first major solo exhibition of Andreas Gursky’s work hosted by the White Cube at Mason’s Yard, is also simultaneously presented at a separate location by Monika Sprüth Philomene Magers, London. The exhibition presents a wide variety of photographs; the Boxenstopp series in particular captures the idea of the globalised society in a grand and epic scale. The continual development of digital photography has resulted in large-scale photographs, (approximately 220cm x 600cm) of an overwhelming quality.
As the viewer initially scans the four landscapes, spectators in the photograph look anxiously on; two teams frantically refuel, repair and change tyres against the clock. There is a distinct separation between light (the Formula 1 teams) and dark (the spectators) referring heavily to painting techniques that distinguish subject from spectator.
Vivid colour defines the separate teams which further divides the photographs into three precise sections. Seemingly charged with action, the state of stasis reveals itself only upon closer observation. Every figure, every gesture is a rigid construct employed to represent a frenetic moment in time, but in actual fact composes a frozen tableau, poised for activity.
These constructed environments, captured in exquisite locations, such as Monte Carlo and Istanbul are by no means contrived. The density of the VIP spectators and media presence, (camera crews and reporters are found in the shadows on the bottom half of the photographs) reinforce the financial game and risks that are rife beneath what appears as a simple team race.
Along with photographs, documenting the Arirang Festival in North Korea, this exhibition clearly defines Gursky’s almost hyperactive obsession for detail.
Monika Sprüth Philomene Magers, London continue to show Gursky's work until 12th May.
Fine Art Graduate from Chelsea College of Art and Design, 2005. Alanna’s work can be seen at www.alannalawley.com
