It’s the age old question, though, that the Tate, and every other ‘art’ space, anywhere in the world should try to answer. Or at least help us in some way, however small or large, find the answer to.
Oh! Yeah…the question: What is art for?
Do you think the Tate Modern fulfilled its part in answering that question, Rosie? For me, I’ve only been once, sometime in the mid-noughties, my ears ringing with tinnitus and suffering from a distinct lack of sleep having experienced the Sex Pistols in Manchester the night before and flying down at stupid ‘o’ clock
I think it fulfilled PART of what art is for, namely the collective experience of creativity. And entertainment. The more profound personal engagement, perhaps yes, esp in the special exhibitions.
Wonderful article, Rosie. For me, Tate Modern is everything that makes London a global magnet and Britain Great. It is, essentially, the kind of repurposing that prevents the venerable from becoming obsolete, as well as an invitation to learn joyfully. Your article makes me itch to visit it again - for the umpteenth time.
Great piece.l love your insights and reflections and memory details (what a day for an MMR!) What do you think about the other galleries in the family - Liverpool and St Ives? Did you cover the opening of those too?
Thank you so much Anna! I didn't cover Liverpool, I was a trainee journalist at the time and watched the coverage on TV, and thought "I'd like to do that one day" ha ha! St Ives I was aware of obvs but didn't cover, although I think in terms of repurposing an industrial building, as all Tates have done (even Millbank), it is probably the most successful. Love it.
The original / now Tate Britain / is still the better museum building though and Richard you should and visit the Tate M its heaving and its vast, esp with the extension
What a joy! I feel the same thrill walking through those doors now as I did when I first did, though its a shame that it feels like something like this would be all but impossible these days...the complications, the resistance, the reduction in vision maybe. Or have I just got more cynical. I really remember you reporting on it back then - my partner of the time was hugely excited by it and it was infectious
It begs the question of whether the digital world is a threat to gallery visitor numbers, though the Louvre’s figures suggest otherwise (or at least that there is a solution).
Thank you so much for reminding us of the years that have gone by. I love Tate Modern and always visit when I'm in London. It is a gallery that exceeds expectations, constantly.
Being part of history is a privilege, and milestones like these are precious. 25 years is not that long, still; history. Somehow, both the lack of phones recording every single instant, and the analogue technology available then are reminders of times not simpler, necessarily, but of an era where one made the effort, and relied on memory to record important events. Much like going to the cinema: a immersive experience that cannot be rewound at the click of a button.
What an amazing launch to have been part of, Rosie!
I always feel a buzz walking into the Turbine Hall - such a vast space. I appreciate its family friendly aspects. I’ve met up with daughters and grandchildren there and always find it fun.
It’s the age old question, though, that the Tate, and every other ‘art’ space, anywhere in the world should try to answer. Or at least help us in some way, however small or large, find the answer to.
Oh! Yeah…the question: What is art for?
Do you think the Tate Modern fulfilled its part in answering that question, Rosie? For me, I’ve only been once, sometime in the mid-noughties, my ears ringing with tinnitus and suffering from a distinct lack of sleep having experienced the Sex Pistols in Manchester the night before and flying down at stupid ‘o’ clock
I think it fulfilled PART of what art is for, namely the collective experience of creativity. And entertainment. The more profound personal engagement, perhaps yes, esp in the special exhibitions.
Fantastic read. I felt like I was there.
Thank you very much, it was an unforgettable day.
Loved reading this.
Thanks v much! Appreciate it.
Wonderful article, Rosie. For me, Tate Modern is everything that makes London a global magnet and Britain Great. It is, essentially, the kind of repurposing that prevents the venerable from becoming obsolete, as well as an invitation to learn joyfully. Your article makes me itch to visit it again - for the umpteenth time.
Ramsey I mean x
Thankyou v much for this Ramsay
So enjoyed this. Totally the right antidote to a world that seems intent on obliterating art.
Thankyou v much Jennifer
Great piece.l love your insights and reflections and memory details (what a day for an MMR!) What do you think about the other galleries in the family - Liverpool and St Ives? Did you cover the opening of those too?
Thank you so much Anna! I didn't cover Liverpool, I was a trainee journalist at the time and watched the coverage on TV, and thought "I'd like to do that one day" ha ha! St Ives I was aware of obvs but didn't cover, although I think in terms of repurposing an industrial building, as all Tates have done (even Millbank), it is probably the most successful. Love it.
The original / now Tate Britain / is still the better museum building though and Richard you should and visit the Tate M its heaving and its vast, esp with the extension
You’re good at birthday celebrations Rosie! And I love seeing the photos of RM circa 2000
Aw thankyou! Pretty strange seeing it all after so long!
What a joy! I feel the same thrill walking through those doors now as I did when I first did, though its a shame that it feels like something like this would be all but impossible these days...the complications, the resistance, the reduction in vision maybe. Or have I just got more cynical. I really remember you reporting on it back then - my partner of the time was hugely excited by it and it was infectious
Thank you so much. It was honestly the highlight of my time at the BBC.
I really enjoyed reading this.
It begs the question of whether the digital world is a threat to gallery visitor numbers, though the Louvre’s figures suggest otherwise (or at least that there is a solution).
I don't think it is- if anything it encourages more connection.
Thank you so much for reminding us of the years that have gone by. I love Tate Modern and always visit when I'm in London. It is a gallery that exceeds expectations, constantly.
Being part of history is a privilege, and milestones like these are precious. 25 years is not that long, still; history. Somehow, both the lack of phones recording every single instant, and the analogue technology available then are reminders of times not simpler, necessarily, but of an era where one made the effort, and relied on memory to record important events. Much like going to the cinema: a immersive experience that cannot be rewound at the click of a button.
A very enjoyable read. Thank you for sharing...
What an amazing launch to have been part of, Rosie!
I always feel a buzz walking into the Turbine Hall - such a vast space. I appreciate its family friendly aspects. I’ve met up with daughters and grandchildren there and always find it fun.
Thankyou v much Wendy!