Tate Modern Faces Challenges Amidst National Gallery’s Expansion
In the world of art institutions, the dynamics between rival galleries can often reflect broader cultural trends and shifts in public interest. Recently, Tate Modern has found itself in a precarious position, reminiscent of the satirical rock band Spın̈al Tap, which famously claimed its audience was not diminishing but merely “becoming more selective.” This analogy has become increasingly relevant as Tate grapples with declining visitor numbers and a financial crisis that has led to staff redundancies.
Declining Visitor Numbers and Financial Strain
Tate Modern’s leadership, particularly director Maria Balshaw, has pointed to a significant drop in visitors aged 16 to 24 from continental Europe as a contributing factor to the institution’s woes. While the museum has touted “record numbers of young visitors,” it raises questions about the demographic focus of its outreach. Are they appealing to the right audience? The museum’s recent strategy seems to prioritize a younger crowd, yet the absence of a broader appeal may be limiting its potential.
This week, Tate Modern is set to unveil a major exhibition titled “Theatre Picasso,” which draws primarily from its own collection. Critics argue that many of these works should be part of the museum’s permanent displays, which have not been adequately showcased in recent years. This approach contrasts sharply with past exhibitions featuring renowned artists like Matisse, Gauguin, and Cézanne, which were bolstered by significant loans from international institutions. The question arises: why has Tate Modern seemingly diminished its scope?
National Gallery’s Strategic Expansion
In stark contrast, the National Gallery has announced ambitious plans to expand its facilities, including the construction of a new wing. This move marks a significant shift in its policy, as the gallery will now begin to collect modern art, a departure from its previous focus on pre-1900 works. This decision not only enhances the National Gallery’s offerings but also positions it as a formidable competitor to Tate Modern, especially after the success of its recent Van Gogh exhibition.
The National Gallery’s rehang, which features works from Cimabue to Picasso, signals a commitment to modern art while maintaining a connection to its historical roots. This dual approach allows the National Gallery to narrate the evolution of art from the late 19th century to the present, a narrative that Tate Modern has largely overlooked.
Diverging Approaches to Modern Art
The contrasting philosophies of Tate Modern and the National Gallery highlight a fundamental difference in how each institution approaches modern art. Tate Modern has consistently prioritized contemporary works, often sidelining early 20th-century masters. In contrast, the National Gallery’s ability to contextualize modern art within a historical framework allows it to tell a more comprehensive story about the evolution of artistic movements.
For instance, the National Gallery can illustrate how artists like Cézanne influenced the development of cubism, which in turn sparked movements such as futurism and suprematism. This historical perspective enriches the visitor experience and provides a deeper understanding of modern art’s roots.
The Impact of COVID-19
Both Tate and the National Gallery faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the National Gallery appears to have emerged stronger. Tate Britain, on the other hand, has struggled to present a cohesive narrative of British art, often neglecting pre-1800 artists and the influential Young British Artists of the 1990s. This narrow focus has left a gap in its offerings, which other institutions, like the National Portrait Gallery, have capitalized on.
Jenny Saville’s recent retrospective at the National Portrait Gallery exemplifies this trend, showcasing a contemporary artist who has garnered significant acclaim. Meanwhile, Tate’s reliance on a formula that once proved successful has left it feeling stagnant and disconnected from current artistic trends.
The Need for Evolution
Tate Modern’s ongoing reliance on established formats, such as its Turbine Hall commissions timed with the Frieze Art Fair, reflects a reluctance to adapt to the evolving art landscape. The definition of modern art has expanded, encompassing a diverse range of media, including painting, drawing, and sculpture. Upcoming exhibitions, such as Tracey Emin’s retrospective, signal a potential shift towards a more inclusive representation of contemporary art.
However, for Tate to regain its footing, it must break free from its rigid branding and embrace a more eclectic approach. The current presentation at Tate Britain has faced criticism for its didactic wall texts and an overly prescriptive narrative. A more celebratory approach to the rich tapestry of British artistic achievement could reinvigorate the institution.
Conclusion: A Call for Change
As Tate Modern prepares to open its latest exhibition, the institution stands at a crossroads. The contrasting fortunes of Tate and the National Gallery underscore the need for Tate to reassess its strategies and broaden its appeal. By embracing a more inclusive narrative that honors the historical context of modern art, Tate can reclaim its position as a leading institution in the art world. The time has come for Tate to evolve, ensuring that it remains relevant in an ever-changing cultural landscape.
