Exhibitions exploring this highly influential Dutch artist coming to Tate Liverpool and Turner Contemporary in 2014.
In summer 2014, two of the UK’s most prestigious and popular art galleries, Tate Liverpool and Turner Contemporary, will present major exhibitions exploring the work of the acclaimed Dutch artist, Piet Mondrian (1872-1944).
Timed to coincide with the 70th anniversary of his death, both exhibitions will collectively tell the story of one of the most iconic artists of the 20th century and focus the UK’s attention on the pioneer of abstraction.
During his career Mondrian’s artistic style changed significantly with a shift from figurative landscapes to the abstract grid work he is most famous for. Turner Contemporary’s Mondrian and Colour begins the narrative by exploring the early period of the artist’s career from c1885 to c1933, tracing the painter’s use of colour from figuration to early abstraction. Tate Liverpool’s Mondrian and his Studios: Abstraction into the World continues this exploration with a particular focus on the significance of Mondrian’s studios. The exhibition also explores the connection between painting and architecture after his move to Paris in 1911 and on to his time spent in New York via London before his death at the age of 71.
The work of Mondrian has had a significant impact on the development of abstract art with an influence so far reaching it is difficult to quantify. His distinct visual style can be linked to the work of artists including Sol LeWitt, Bridget Riley and Liam Gillick as well as Bauhaus and the development of the Minimalists of the late 1960s.
However Mondrian’s legacy goes far beyond the art world and has permeated into fashion, design and music. From Alexander McQueen’s spring/summer 2014 collection and Yves Saint Laurent’s ‘Mondrian’ day-dress, to the use of Mondrian’s Neo-Plasticist style by The White Stripes for the cover of their album De Stijl in 2000, Mondrian has made a significant impact on today’s visual landscape.
Victoria Pomery, Director, Turner Contemporary said: “Mondrian is one of the most significant artists of all time. His late abstract works are widely known and his particular style has influenced many other art forms. Given Mondrian’s broad appeal, it is fitting that Turner Contemporary and Tate Liverpool are presenting these two exhibitions to coincide with the 70th anniversary of his death.”
Francesco Manacorda, Artistic Director, Tate Liverpool said: “Individually these exhibitions are exceptional and explore elements of Mondrian’s work that have never been discussed before. Together they will tell the complete story of the artist, his influences and his legacy. Whether you live in the north or the south of the UK the British public will have access to work that will take them on a journey of his artistic career and allow them to get beneath the grid and understand more.”
Mondrian and his Studios: Abstraction into the World will be on at Tate Liverpool from 6 June – 5 October 2014