Saatchi Yates Makes a Splash With New Group Show "Bathers"
Bringing together historical masters such as Picasso and contemporary stars including Damien Hirst, David Hockney and Angela Santana.
After enduring a long and cold winter in the U.K., gallerists Phoebe Saatchi Yates and Arthur Yates are now bringing a much-needed taste of summer to art enthusiasts. They have curated a captivating group show inspired by the rich tradition of bathers in painting, featuring renowned post-war historical masters alongside contemporary talent.
This eagerly anticipated exhibition, entitled “Bathers,” serves as a heartfelt tribute to the ultimate summer muse. It beautifully captures the transformative moments in the evolution of this symbol, from its portrayal in religious and mythological scenes to its radical reinterpretation in countless ways. Grounded in the mythical birth of Venus from the sea, the tradition of depicting bathers continues to thrive, inspiring and captivating emerging artists.
Renowned art critic Martin Gayford shares his profound thoughts on the exhibition, stating: “Bathers in painting embody both incredible diversity and fundamental aspects of the human condition. The combination of unclothed bodies and water can evoke a guilt-free primordial innocence–a sin-free Eden. Conversely, these same visual elements can evoke the consequences of Eve and Adam’s Fall: guilt, lust and even death.”
He continued: “The subject of bathers elegantly unites two of the major preoccupations that have captivated artists throughout the centuries–landscape and the nude. It is no surprise that artists have been enthralled by bathers for so long, and it is highly likely that the enduring allure of water and the human form will continue to fascinate artists far into the future.”
The exhibition showcases an impressive array of artistic talent, featuring works by esteemed masters such as David Hockney, Paul Cezanne, J. M. W. Turner and Pablo Picasso. In addition, it proudly presents the works of contemporary luminaries like Hurvin Anderson, Peter Doig, Henry Taylor and Eric Fischl. Visitors will also have the privilege of experiencing notable pieces by Jean-Baptiste Oudry, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Damien Hirst and Auguste Rodin.
Furthermore, Saatchi Yates takes great pride in presenting the works of six accomplished gallery artists who have delved into the Bather theme, infusing it with their own unique artistic styles. This diverse group of artists includes Danny Fox, Benjamin Spiers, Tesfaye Urgessa, Sujin Lee, Kottie Paloma and Angela Santana. Through their contemporary perspectives, they offer a fresh and captivating exploration of this enduring subject.
“Bathers” will be available for viewing from June 1 until August 10, with admission being free for all. Additionally, there will be weekly curator-led tours every Saturday throughout June.
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