Passed as Present exhibition at York Art Gallery

John Martin's 'Apocalypse'

From abstract to vanitas, this collection has such a wide variety of styles that there’s almost certainly something for everyone. Despite some tenuous links, the exhibit showcases how modern artists have taken direct inspiration from their predecessors using updated styles more suited to contemporary taste. On more than one occasion however, I felt that the pairings exemplified how art has digressed from being an exposition of supreme talent to a desperate search for provocation with no real artistic aptitude prevalent. Of course, this is subjective with regard to what your definition of art actually is. The beauty of this exhibition is that it encourages you to philosophise over this question: what exactly is art?

For those that feel that art is something that should display an aptitude for painting or fine and detailed drawing, there is plenty at this exhibition to satisfy your tastes. John Martin’s ‘Apocalypse’ is one of the superb examples of talented craftsmanship showcased in Passed as Present. For those that feel that art should provoke debate then Sarah Strang’s ‘Protest by Dean Augusto’ will be particularly interesting for you. This piece displays the artist’s condemnation of the human rights and labour laws. Providing an excellent amalgam of past and present styles is Lei Xui’s ‘Tee Trinken’ (drinking tea). This exhibit uses delicate Willow pattern style painting on crushed porcelain cans to encourage the viewer to philosophise over the differences between Eastern and Western culture. Utilising 18th Century painting techniques whilst addressing contemporary global concerns, this is a perfect piece for the exhibition’s title.

So whatever tickles your fancy with regards to art, get yourself to York Art Gallery’s Passed as Present exhibition. With such a wide variety of styles and techniques, you can’t fail to find something that’s aesthetically and mentally stimulating.

Add Comment

You must log in to submit a comment.