The highly anticipated Lubaina Himid exhibition opens this week at Tate Modern. Bringing together the largest collection of her work, it is vibrant and highly compelling. As well as exhibiting career highlights, like the well-known A Fashionable Marriage (1984), on display are some of Himid’s more recent paintings, several done during lockdown and being shown for the first time.
Born in Zanzibar, Himid has been part of the British contemporary art landscape for nearly four decades. A highly influential member of the British Black artist’s movement, she has worked tirelessly to place underrepresented artists in the spotlight, particularly female artists. In 2017, she was awarded the Turner Prize, the oldest winner ever (at the age of 63) and the first black woman.
Himid’s training in theatre design is clearly evident upon first entry to the show, already setting the stage for what is to come. Visitors are led through the exhibit with probing questions – What are Monuments For? What Does Love Sound Like? How Do You Distinguish Safety from Danger?
Sound is as much a part of the experience as what hangs on the walls, creating an immersive atmosphere. In particular, Blue Grid Test 2020, which is being displayed in the UK for the first time. Created in collaboration with Polish artist Magda Stawarska-Bevan, it wraps 25 feet around a whole room as Himid’s voice echoes throughout.
There is so much to see and take in – it is impossible to leave without being in awe of Himid’s talent.
Tate Modern Lates will be programmed specifically for this exhibition on Friday 26 November, offering a free evening of music, live performances, discussions, and workshops. Lubaina Himid herself will be there to join in conversation with fellow female artists, Amber Akaunu and Sade Mica. Don’t miss it.
Image Credits
Lubaina Himid; A Fashionable Marriage, 1986; Installation view, 2021 (c) Tate Modern; Photo: Sonal Bakrania
Lubaina Himid; There Could Be an Endless Ocean, 2018; Courtesy the artist and Hollybush Gardens
Lubaina Himid; Ball on Shipboard, 2018; Rennie Collection, Vancouver; (c) Lubaina Himid
Lubaina Himid; Blue Grid Test, 2020; (c) Lubaina Himid
A Little Bird Loves
