Antony Gormley, Body Politic at WHITE CUBE Bermondsey

December 25, 2023 Razvan Chiorean

Antony Gormley's 'Body Politic' explores humanity's relationship with our industrial surroundings across five distinct bodies of work. Urgently addressing the tension between our need for refuge and our inherent migratory nature, Gormley's exhibition features concrete sculptures like Retreat (2022–23), embodying various body postures and celebrating the freedom found within stillness.

Resting Place (2023) transforms South Gallery II into a labyrinth of clay blocks, depicting bodies at rest and touching upon themes of displacement. In the North Gallery, 'Weave Works' in cast iron and Test (2021–23) engage with the interplay of space, light, and architecture, blurring the lines between sculpture and environment.

Bind (2023) in South Gallery I creates a three-dimensional drawing with steel, while Stand (2023), a towering Corten steel sculpture in the 9x9x9 gallery, acknowledges the entropy of construction and the vulnerability of man-made creations.

'Body Politic' prompts contemplation on freedom, discipline, and the intrinsic qualities of sculpture. Gormley's extensive international exhibition history, including recent shows in Paris, Duisburg, and Singapore, attests to the global impact of his work. Awarded the Turner Prize in 1994 and recognized with various honors, Gormley remains a prominent figure in contemporary sculpture.