ART FILE 06 | "DEATH: A Self-Portrait" | "From Art Exhibitions Around the World" Series
Art File 06 | London, UK | Wellcome Collection
A Self-Portrait of "Death"
"DEATH: A self-portrait"
Wellcome Collection in London is a free exhibition space that hosts collections and events related to medicine, and the past, present, and future of life and art. Currently, the special exhibition "DEATH: The self-portrait" is on display until Sunday, February 24th. Featuring "death" as its theme, the exhibition showcases over 300 works from the collection of art collector Richard Harris.
Text by Winsome Li (OPENERS)
"Death"—An Art Exhibition for an Inevitable Destination
From the past to the present, "death" has been a source of inspiration and a mode of expression for various artists. This exhibition broadly introduces "death" as an illustration, encompassing photography, oil paintings, historical artifacts, and scientific specimens. Art, as a medium, gives form to the intimate relationship between death and the body.
Even in this modern era of continuous medical advancement, art confronts us with the unavoidable truth that humans, regardless of social standing, may still pass away from illness. The exhibition presents profound worlds beyond mere art, featuring photographs of doctors and the Grim Reaper vying for a sick patient, a skeleton seated on a "Green Table" symbolizing war and terror, and remade skulls. It also highlights differing perspectives on and acceptance of "death" through works from various countries. Furthermore, at the exhibition's exit, a chandelier made of 3,000 plastic bones creates an overwhelming and unique atmosphere.
DEATH: The self-portrait
Venue | Wellcome Collection
Dates | November 15, 2012 – February 24, 2013
Opening Hours | 10:00–18:00 (Tues–Sun); 10:00–22:00 (Thurs)
Closed | Mondays
Admission | Free
Address | 183 Euston Road, London NW1 2BE
Tel. +44 (0)20 7611 2222
http://www.wellcomecollection.org/whats-on/exhibitions/death-a-self-portrait.aspx


