Sadie Coles HQ presents Grandma’s Land by Alvaro Barrington

This September, Alvaro Barrington is set to showcase Grandma’s Land, a significant new collection of work that harks back to his early life in the Caribbean. The Kingly Street space in Soho will be completely transformed by Barrington for his third solo show at the gallery, creating a ‘universe’ as described by the artist himself. The exhibition will revolve around three large, handcrafted architectural installations that reflect aspects of regional family life, celebrating the diverse culture and landscape.

The project, both in its scale and theme, marks an ambitious extension of enduring themes from Barrington’s career - the intertwining of personal and cultural narratives, and their intersection with family, community, love, music and its vibrant materiality, as well as broader inspirations drawn from art history. Following the Notting Hill Carnival (27-28 August 2023), where Barrington will showcase several collaborative projects, Grandma’s Land will feature new works specifically designed for the project that build upon regional traditions.

These works will be displayed alongside several pieces created for this year’s Carnival. The exhibition will include a variety of media such as painting, drawing, wallpaper, installation and video for the first time. Barrington employs both traditional and non-traditional materials like timber and burlap that are commonly used in Caribbean housing structures. This reflects his ongoing interest in how different mediums can serve as visual tools and signify cultural and political histories.

Barrington has also invited fellow artists to participate in the exhibition. These artists’ diverse practices similarly honor the Caribbean, its diaspora and Carnival culture. Two of the three structures will feature works by artists Sonia Gomes and Paul Anthony Smith, creating a richly textured environment that embodies the spirit of collaboration central to his practice. Additionally, a new piece by filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr., focusing on the Notting Hill Carnival, will be included in the exhibition.

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