The chaotic, haphazard and bizarre nature of modern art is easily explained: The painter finally settles for whatever satisfaction may be involved in working not as an independent member of a society that needs him, but as a retainer for a small group of people who as a profession or as a hobby are interested in the game of comparing one mutation with another.
- John Canaday (former art critic of the New York Times)

I am for an art that is political-erotical-mystical, that does something other than sit on its ass in a museum.
- Claes Oldenburg

By now, though, let's hope you are convinced that you need to see this show for yourself. It isn't to be missed, even if you have only a casual interest in contemporary art.  read more »

As another predictable and uninspiring artwork wins a major prize, I am forced to question what role the voting public should really play in deciding the outcomes of creative ventures. On September 15th, I received an e-mail announcing the winner of the Threadneedle Prize. At the opening at the beginning of September I was pleasently surprised to find a show with some strong intentions and a hearty attempt to explore the huge variety of approaches to making figurative work.  I was not entirely in agreement with the shortlist, but it certainly contained some interesting work and reflected to some degree the broad spectrum of the show.  read more »

There is always a different atmosphere in an exhibition where the work has been submitted by members of the public and lesser known artists.

It’s a bit like a student show. You dare not say anything negative just in case you’re stood next to the artist’s mother.  Despite this, open exhibitions do encourage people to do just that; be open and talk freely about the works, as there is no expectation to like or understand them.  read more »