Hew Locke : Where Lies the Land?

26 Sep-7 Dec 2019

Overview

An exhibition of new works by Hew Locke (b. 1959, Edinburgh, UK). In his fifth solo show with the gallery, the artist delves deeper into his motifs, addressing the symbolism of statuary, monarchy and ships. Throughout an extensive and complex practice, Locke remains dedicated to illuminating histories and geographies – highlighting the relevance of the past within the context of contemporary culture and politics. Where Lies the Land? is a timely exploration of authoritarian power, migration and globalisation in a climate of increasing political uncertainty and heightened anxiety. For over thirty years Locke has been engaged with unpacking visual codes – using everyday materials to create conflations of history and modernity. Locke’s critique of existing power structures is subtle and open-ended, encouraging the viewer to look more closely.