What?
Lubaina Himid is a Zanzibar born British painter and cultural activist. Her work often explores ideas around what it means to be Black British and looks at themes such as representation and identity putting people of colour front of centre. This is Lubaina’s largest exhibition to date and it is made up of an array of visual and audio art pieces spanning over her career of 30+ years. This exhibition displays a vast number of works that share two common themes: the exploration of overlooked history and the idea of personal and collective attempts at belonging. Himid’s experience working as a stage designer can clearly be found in her bold pieces dotted throughout the exhibition.
“The audience member is in the paintings … The experience should be similar to entering a room and deciding what you’re going to do, how you will react and interact.” – Lubaina Himid
One of the greatest things about Lubaina is the way she paints both poetry and images on ‘found’ objects. Cue the “Men in drawers” portrait series which Himid refers to as containers of history and memories. One of the most commonly mentioned comments about Lubaina Himid’s art is just how much of her work looks and sounds “joyous” through her bold use of colour and varying sound, even as it reflects upon deeper more sombre subjects. However, it is important to remember that art is also free to be enjoyed on a surface level and we must remember that in order to enjoy art, you as the consumer/viewer are not forced to find meaning in every piece. This is a beautiful collection of art meant to be enjoyed however you best see fit and one we would most definitely recommend.
Where?
Bankside, London SE1 9TG
The following transport lines have routes that pass near Tate Modern Gallery
Bus: 11, 4, 40,63
Overground & Thameslink
Tube: Central, Circle & District lines
Stations: Blackfriars, London Bridge & Southwark
When?
The Lubaina Himid exhibition will remain open to the public until 2nd October 2022.
Tate Modern is open 7 days a week from 10:00-18:00.
How much?
This exhibition has ticketed entry. Tickets can be purchased here.
General admission – £16
Senior, Job seeker & disabled tickets – £15
Disabled companions go free of charge
Family child aged 12-18 £5
Children under 12 go free
Those aged between 16-25 have the option to sign up for a free Tate Collective account which provides access to all paid exhibitions for £5 as opposed to GA price. You can sign up here to Tate Collective
Is it accessible ?
- Tate Modern has step free entrance is via the Turbine Hall; visitors who have access needs may use the South entrance of the Blavatnik Building, via Park Street.
- To borrow a wheelchair or walker you can either book in advance or ask a member of staff on arrival (subject to availability). Reservation is free
- Fully accessible toilets are located on every floor on the concourses.
- Tate also welcome guide dogs, hearing dogs and assistance dogs in the gallery. Drinking bowls are available at the Turbine Hall entrance if you ask a member of staff.
- For guests with autism, ear defenders can be borrowed from the Ticket desks.
- There are twelve parking spaces for disabled visitors, accessed via Park Street – Spaces must be booked via email at least 24 hours in advance
