Drawing inspiration from the iconic "A Rake's Progress" by William Hogarth, Perry's opus comprises of six monumental tapestries, each spanning an impressive 2 meters by 4 meters. These intricate works vividly capture the diverse cast of characters, events, and artifacts encountered by Perry during his explorations of Sunderland, Tunbridge Wells, and the Cotswolds, as documented in the Channel 4 television series "All in the Best Possible Taste."
Displayed at The Lightbox gallery and museum in Woking until June 2, these tapestries, belonging to the Arts Council Collection, make their Surrey debut, inviting viewers to delve into the British preoccupation with social hierarchy and class dynamics.
Rooted in Perry's firsthand experiences and observations from his television venture, "The Vanity of Small Differences" transforms sketches and photographs into elaborate tapestries, illustrating Perry's quest to unravel the complexities of "good taste" across England's diverse landscapes.
Through the saga of Tim Rakewell, Perry delves into the intricacies of contemporary social mobility, drawing intriguing parallels to Hogarth's 18th-century protagonist, Tom Rakewell, in "A Rake's Progress." In a series of six expansive tapestries, Perry eloquently narrates Tim Rakewell's ascent and eventual downfall, echoing Hogarth's storytelling prowess across eight paintings.
Traditionally reserved for grand historical narratives, religious motifs, and military conquests, Perry reinvents the tapestry medium to encapsulate the nuances of class dynamics and personal identity, challenging conventional perceptions.
Reflecting on his artistic endeavor, Perry says, "The tapestries encapsulate the journey of class mobility, as our upbringing profoundly shapes our aesthetic sensibilities. I explore the intricate interplay of consumerism, popular design, and emotional investment in our daily choices, emphasizing the enduring influence of class and taste on our lives."
Sarah Brown, Director of The Lightbox, expresses her joy at hosting Perry's inaugural solo exhibition in Surrey, underscoring the institution's commitment to democratizing access to contemporary art and fostering community engagement.
For those eager to experience this captivating exhibition firsthand, further details regarding opening hours and admission prices are available at www.thelightbox.org.uk.
Explore Andipa's collection of Grayson Perry art for sale or contact our gallery to buy Grayson Perry prints.