Visitors to St Ives this winter may be shocked; the famous round glass window has been obscured by chipboard panels and Patrick Heron’s window has been boarded over. The gallery is showing eight video works by eight different artists, mostly from the Tate’s collection (until 26 January). This was the idea of curators Susan Daniel McElroy and Andrew Dalton, who, instead of looking for inspiration in the Cornish landscape, have chosen works that will transport viewers away, to Tracey Emin’s frowsy London flat, Shirin Neshat’s Iranian courtyards, or the tranquillity of a North American woodland where Bill Viola is just about to jump into a still, reflecting pool of water. The works are all well known, chosen to give a broad introduction to the medium. Representing the YBA s are Tracey Emin’s “Curriculum vitae”, Steve McQueen’s “Bear”, Mark Wallinger’s “Angel” and Sam Taylor-Wood’s “Brontosaurus”. Bringing a dash of international finesse are Shirin Neshat’s “Soliloquy” (left) and Bill Viola’s “Reflecting pool”.
Originally appeared in The Art Newspaper as 'What's on: Real life'