DHC / ART • ED ATKINS: MODERN PIANO MUSIC > 03.09.2017

Left: Ed Atkins / Right: detail from Hisser, 2015 Photos © Lena Ghio, 2017

Ed Atkins is known for his digital videos that are strikingly realistic. We get very close to the protagonist of his tales, Dave, an unpleasant chap who is invariably alone and alienated even when in situations that should bring community. The artist is addressing the impact of the digital age and of the internet on our perception of the human body in physical and spiritual space. The protagonist is vulnerable in the viewing blocks inside the large rooms of concrete walls where the sound is exquisite but the atmosphere stark. As I watched the videos, I felt many contrasting emotions towards the unfolding scenes: the rendering of the physical spaces is crisp and realistic; Dave is touching, pathetic, wounded.

I asked Ed Atkins about the intent of his works, were they sad and hopeless? He laughed and recognized that his videos could be noir but that he was not that gloomy and that in fact he was expecting a child soon.

The exhibition is composed of five of the artist's latest works: Even Pricks (2013), Hisser (2015), Happy Birthday!! (2014), Ribbons (2014) Safe Conduct (2016): that are displayed in a gallery each with seats so you can take your time with each piece. Cheryl Sims curated the exhibition. I stayed with the works for a good two hours and I will likely see them again.

DHC / ART does more than bring us some of the world's most exciting contemporary artists, it offers the public a chance to expand their knowledge and understanding of contemporary art practices  with creative workshops, guided tours, apps and downloads of all their major exhibitions including access to a reading room. Info HERE

-LENA GHIO