A powerful and contemplative exploration – If Not Now, When? sees 29 female makers present work from the 1960s to the present day. The exhibition at Saatchi Gallery offers an array of artworks that challenge viewers to confront the complexities of feminist sculpture in the present moment and question the trajectory of its future.
If Not Now, When? is the outcome of a two-year research project, Hepworth’s Progeny. The project was initiated in the late 1980’s by Lorna Green in her M.Phil thesis which explored women artists working in the expanded field of sculpture. Here, the research is revisited and developed by Green alongside an advisory board and co-curated by Dr Anna Douglas and Dr Kerry Harker.
Douglas and Harker’s curatorial approach is thoughtful, with artworks carefully positioned to create a visual and conceptual interchange that unfolds as visitors navigate the space. Organised thematically, the various spaces allow for a nuanced exploration of contemporary issues – motherhood, discrimination, climate crisis, care, social justice. Further, this leads to unexpected connections between disparate artworks, sparking a dialogue that encourages viewers to consider the interconnectedness of the issues at hand.
The exhibition sees established artists positioned alongside emerging artists, without hierarchy – Phyllida Barlow, Helen Chadwick, Cornelia Parker, Kara Lyons, Permindar Kaur, to name but a few. The variety of works, voices and perspectives creates a rich and interesting offering. However, the exhibition is unified by the shared commitment of the artists to use their work as a tool for social and political reflection.
If Not Now, When? at Saatchi Gallery centres and reflects on the challenges and opportunities of the present moment. The exhibition invites viewers to consider their role in shaping the future. It is a call to engage, to question, to act.
If Not Now, When? is open at Saatchi Gallery until 22nd January 2024, tickets and further information is available here.
Featured image credit: Installation view, IF NOT NOW, WHEN? © Matt Chung, 2023 Image courtesy of the Saatchi Gallery, London
Review by Amy Melling
Amy is a Curator and Creative Producer whose practice is centred around community-led arts projects. Her current research is focused on curatorial methods for exhibiting artworks outside. Amy has a keen interest in the arts and recently completed an MA in Curating and Collections at Chelsea College of Arts, UAL.
