Saturday, January 1, 2011

The Unilever Series by Ai Weiwei


It's been a while since my last entry as I have been busy travelling and have found it hard to post. Mainly because it is tricky seperating my son from his laptop long enough to use it! So here's a very quick bit of inspiration. I went to the Tate Modern in London last week and was deliciously floored by The Unilever Series by Chinese conceptual artist Ai Weiwei. It is an installation made of of millions of hand crafted porcelain sunflower seeds poured into the Turbine Gallery. I do wish I was able to visit in the first few days when the audience was allowed to walk on the installation - but alas that is no longer allowed due to 'dangerous dust'. Sigh. It is nonetheless an inspirational artwork and exciting concept. Check it out. http://www.tate.org.uk/modern/exhibitions/unileverseries2010/default.shtm  The exhibition includes a fascinating video following the porcelain seeds being created, as well as providing an opportunity for visitors to ask Ai Weiwei questions about the installation via video.

2 comments:

mariapmann said...

Unfortunately Weiwei has been detained and his house destroyed by the Chinese authorities, for being an outspoken critic.

Deborah Milligan said...

It is a terribly sad situation he has been in. thank heavens he is back in the world's eye now.