Conflicted…

Blog 4: The Tate Modern

By Isaac Overman

May 30 2022

We departed for the Tate at around ten o’clock. The ride was pleasant and the day got on without a hitch. I decided to spend my time at the Tate following Shiloh—knowing his love for the building and the style of art. This was because I rarely enjoy modern art. My first impression was that the building itself was incredible. Both the original and added wing were impressive and lovely to behold. This was increased by Shiloh’s expertise and allowed me to appreciate it even more. The two pieces that really stood out to me where: “Monument for the Living” by Marwan Rechmaoui constructed between 2001-2008, and “Birth” by Jackson Pollock painted in 1941.

The former spoke to me because of it simplicity and beauty but also because of the story behind it. From first glance it just looks like the bare bones of a building built 1/100^th of scale. But knowing the backstory about how it was too expensive to finish and too dangerous to go near because it was used as a sniper tower during the civil war in Lebanon at the time really spoke to me. It was impossible to finish but was too heavy to pull down. In a way that kind represents life.

Pollock is more complicated for me. First of all, because I didn’t know that it was a Pollock and secondly because I liked it. If you were to ask me my thoughts on Jackson Pollock I would say that total chaos does not speak to me through art, but this piece was a far cry from his normal chaotic messes. This one had life, pain and complexity to it. I found myself entranced by it and honestly could have spent many more minutes looking at it. Shiloh and I made it trough every nook and cranny of the Tate including the new addition which left more than a little to be desired. My overall review of the Tate would be that the collection itself was lacking. Compared to Le Louvre or Le musée d’Orsay in France the quality of works just was not there. This is not to say that I did not enjoy the Tate because I actually did. Just as an art museum it needs a more robust catalog. The building itself was amazing though.

Foodie note: In case anyone else was curious, Shiloh and I walked across the bridge and enjoyed a Michelin Bibbed (not quite a star but still top 75 in London) restaurant called Bancone. It was about 50 euros between the two of us for drinks, mains and a shared starter. They serve homemade traditional Italian. This is a must try for anyone who wants a truly special dinning experience. Very solid 9.5/10. There are two locations but we went to the one in Covent Gardens which is the original. It would be a good idea to make a reservation if you plan to visit as it was packed at 2:30 on a Monday. Best thing I have eaten so far