Tracey Emin's "Crossing into Darkness" Exhibition at Carl Freedman Gallery

Tracey Emin's latest exhibition, "Crossing into Darkness," at the Carl Freedman Gallery in Margate, presents a profound exploration of themes surrounding darkness and creativity. Emin has curated a collection that juxtaposes her own works with those of artists she nurtures at Emin Studios, alongside renowned figures such as Edvard Munch and Louise Bourgeois. The exhibition is characterized by a unique lighting design that immerses the gallery in shadow while still allowing the artworks to be visible, creating an atmosphere that reflects the depths of winter.

The Guardian

The exhibition opens with a striking piece by Antony Gormley, a concrete waistcoat that evokes a sense of absence and unease. This theme of uneasy portraiture continues with Munch's haunting self-portrait and Joline Kwakkenbos's provocative painting, "Self-Portrait as a Painter as Lucretia," which depicts a historical figure in a moment of self-harm. The collection also includes Lindsey Mendick's ceramic busts, which blend horror and dark humor, and Laura Footes's allegorical painting that critiques business and politics through a gothic lens.

The Guardian

Anselm Kiefer's work, featuring a hammer and anvil inscribed with "Thor," adds a mythological dimension to the exhibition, while Hermann Nitsch's performance relics evoke visceral reactions. The exhibition culminates in a large painting by Emin herself, titled "I Am Protected," which portrays a woman in a vulnerable position, suggesting themes of guardianship and hope amidst darkness.

The Guardian

Emin articulates that the exhibition reflects the dark times we currently face, yet it also serves as a source of solace, particularly in light of her personal battle with cancer. She emphasizes the duality of darkness, stating, “I thought I would die but didn’t,” suggesting that through confronting darkness, one can find light and renewal. Emin draws parallels between the cyclical nature of day and night, highlighting that entering darkness can lead to new beginnings.

The Guardian

While the exhibition has been praised for its depth and emotional resonance, some critics have questioned the coherence of the eclectic mix of styles and themes. The juxtaposition of horror elements with more traditional artistic expressions has sparked debate about the effectiveness of such contrasts in conveying Emin's intended message.

The Guardian

• “I thought I would die but didn’t.” — Tracey Emin, Artist

The Guardian

• “You go to bed, put out the light and cross into darkness.” — Tracey Emin, Artist

The Guardian

"Crossing into Darkness" invites viewers to engage with the complexities of fear, creativity, and hope. Emin's curation not only showcases a diverse array of artistic expressions but also serves as a personal reflection on her journey through darkness, ultimately encouraging a dialogue about the transformative power of art in challenging times.

The Guardian