Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Remember the 20th century? Accelerated by technology and fragmented by war, it was
an exciting and chaotic time, with art as turbulent as the world that created it. The Tate
Modern lets you walk through the explosive last century with a glimpse at its brave new
art.
The Tate Modern is (controversially) displayed by concept—“Poetry and Dream,” for
example—rather than by artist and chronology. But unlike the museum, this chapter is
neatly chronological. It's not intended as a painting-by-painting tour. Read through this
chapter for a general introduction, use it as a reference, then take advantage of the Tate's
excellent videoguide to focus on specific works. With this background in 20th-century art,
you'll appreciate the Tate's even greater strength: art of the 21st century.
Future Expansion:
The Tate Modern opened in 2000 anticipating two million visit-
ors a year. More than twice that number visit, mostly on Saturdays. To meet the growing
demand, the Tate is constructing a new wing to the south, which will double the museum's
exhibition space. Although the new building's exterior facade matches the Tate's industri-
al brick look, its shape and interior are slick, modern, and custom-built to display great art,
including large-scale installations. In addition to showing off more of the Tate's impress-
ive collection (much of which, sadly, is often in storage or on loan), the museum plans
to go beyond its current European and North American focus by adding exhibits of Lat-
in American, African, and Asian art. A new 11th-floor restaurant promises some of the
grandest views over London.
The new wing is opening bit by bit. Once finished, the permanent collection will
likely be rearranged, with some pieces moving to the new building.
