A political artist’s interactive exhibition of protest at Whitechapel Gallery has sparked controversy.
Peter Kennard’s art focuses on social and political injustices.
Kennard, 75, is a Professor of Political Art at the Royal College of Art, whose photomontages appear on placards often used by protesterswith added slogans.
The exhibition, ‘Archive of Dissent’ features newspapers, glass projection, collage of photos and famous examples of protest, such as the Polish trade union logo from the 1980s, Solidarnosc (Solidarity).
Kennard said: “My art erupts from outrage at the fact that the search for financial profit rules every nook and cranny of our society.
“It rails at the waste of lives caused by the trillions spent on manufacturing weapons and the vast profits made by arms companies.”
Peter Kennard: Archive of Dissent – 'striking' political photomontages https://t.co/Rpe3agkXEd
— Peter Kennard (@peterkennardx) September 6, 2024
Founded in 1901, Whitechapel Gallery has a long history of exhibitions and educational programmes on major social issues.
The public have expressed concerns on social media about the effectiveness of art when discussing war.
Some have stated Kennard does not actively show his full support for Palestine. He disputes this point of view.
Most commenters on social media found the exhibition striking and provocative in initiating greater understanding of corruption.
Steven Sumner, who describes himself as a conceptual multimedia artist, said: “It is said a picture speaks a thousand words, so from my perspective retaining the ability to apply critical thought to art and imagery, offers a place of reflection and the question ‘what does this make me feel?’”
Hannah Wood, the curator of the exhibition, said: “Protest has a different impact within the gallery space, as opposed to on the streets.
“Whilst a gallery’s impact on the outside world is limited, it is still a public space where people can learn and discuss, which I think is incredibly valuable.
“For this reason, I believe it’s important to show political work like Peter Kennard’s, to make people stop and reflect on what’s going on.
“Most found the exhibition striking and provocative in initiating greater understanding of corruption.
“It’s been amazing to see Kennard’s work encountered by a younger generation, which makes me hopeful that protest can continue to have an impact on society today.”
The exhibition runs until January 19.
Featured image: Kasia Flisiuk
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