Mike Nelson: The Asset Strippers


Poignant installation at Tate Britain by Mike Nelson which turns the great central gallery into a junk yard.

This show used old industrial machinery to make large sculptural pieces but the machinery kept it’s integrity and is probably recognisable to anyone who had used it. The entrances were blocked by old industrial and hospital doors so you had to break into the space. A few of the doors were topped with large intertwined G and E’s for King George and Queen Elizabeth.

The overall effect was a mix of a junk yard and an industrial museum. I loved the fact that in certain areas you could smell the material, creosote in one place and a musty dampness in another. The works set up wonderful vistas trough the gallery. I would love the have known where all the pieces came from.

I found it poignant and the pieces felt dignified but spoke of industries which are long gone. Although they are a sign of mechanism those industries have been mechanised even more and cut out the people.  I love the fact these machines have been given a new life.

Closes on 6 October 2019

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