Rachel Whiteread
dal 14/6/2012 al 14/7/2012
Segnalato da
14/6/2012
Rachel Whiteread
Whitechapel, London
The British artist creates a new work of art for the Whitechapel Gallery's historic facade. For this commission, Whiteread draws inspiration from the decorative 'tree of life' motif that is part of the terracotta building to create a powerful decorative scheme that celebrates both the qualities of the existing architecture and the life-affirming power of art.
The Whitechapel Gallery in London unveils a major new commission by Rachel Whiteread for the building’s main entrance on Whitechapel High Street.
The work is planned for the facade of the gallery, an important Grade II* listed arts and crafts building dating from 1901 and designed by Charles Harrison Townsend.
The original plans for the gallery show that the facade was to have included a frieze embodying its public message – to bring great art to the people of London. It was never realised and a large blank rectangle has instead remained above the main entrance for more than a century.
For this commission, Whiteread draws inspiration from the decorative 'tree of life' motif that is part of the terracotta building to create a powerful decorative scheme that celebrates both the qualities of the existing architecture and the life-affirming power of art.
This ambitious and important commission will enable the Whitechapel Gallery to enhance one of London’s most important street arteries and to play a central part in the changes taking place in the London in 2012, creating a lasting artistic legacy for the enjoyment of all.
Commissioned by the Whitechapel Gallery and the London 2012 Festival with partnership funding from The Art Fund.
Rachel Whiteread is one of the 12 British artists commissioned to design an official Olympic and Paralympic poster for London 2012.
For further press information please contact:
Rachel Mapplebeck Head of Communications
T: +44 (0)20 7522 7880 rachelmapplebeck@whitechapelgallery.org
Daisy Mallabar Media Relations Manager
T: +44 (0)20 7522 7871 daisymallabar@whitechapelgallery.org
Alex O'Neill Press Officer
T: +44 (0)20 7539 3360 alexoneill@whitechapelgallery.org
Opening June 15th, noon
Whitechapel Gallery
Victor Petitgas Gallery (Gallery 9)
77 - 82 Whitechapel High Street, London
Opening times: Tuesday - Sunday, 11am - 6pm, Thursdays, 11am - 9pm.
Admission free.