Identity Themes in Art: London Eye for Tribute Magazine
February 2024: Jack Eames shares his recommendations for Tribute Magazine with a look at identity themes in art and media
It’s been a good start to the year with lots of inspiring releases across a range of genres, with a strong pattern of identity themes in art. The below was originally published in February 2024.
1/ Film: Saltburn
I’m kicking off this issues London Eye with a movie that I know has been pretty divisive across the board – Saltburn. And I’ll be going against the naysayers when I say this: I loved it.
For me one of the standout aspects of Saltburn is its mesmerizing cinematography, which beautifully captures the grandiose of its setting. The film's narrative is equally captivating, weaving together elements of mystery, suspense, and drama in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat. As the plot unfolds, you are drawn deeper into the intricate web of deception and obsession. Through doppelgängers and reflections you see many sides of each character, and the film is an excellent example of art exploring themes of identity.
Kitsch, dark and at times ridiculous, Saltburn is highly entertaining and aesthetically gratifying. The casting is excellent – from the lead roles played by Barry Keoghan and Jacob Elordi, to supporting roles by Rosamund Pike and Carey Mulligan - the performances are nothing short of exceptional, with each actor delivering a nuanced and compelling portrayal of their character.
2/ Exhibition: Unravel - The Barbican
Earlier this month a wonderful new exhibition opened at the Barbican – Unravel: The Power and Politics of Textiles in Art. The show boasts work from 50 international artists, including fellow Kent resident Tracey Emin. Far from the world of photography, I couldn’t wait to immerse myself in a world of embroidery, soft sculpture and textile installation, and it absolutely did not disappoint.
From the moment you step into the gallery the curation tackles difficult and thought-provoking subjects, challenging viewers to confront their own preconceptions and biases. The exhibition challenges notions of textile art as a ‘craft’ or ‘medium for women’, showcasing highly politicised and conceptual pieces by artists of all genders.
As you walk through the rooms the art confronts you with themes of identity, healing, ancestry, and the human experience in all its complexity. With such a tactile medium there is a very strong temptation to touch the artwork and feel the intricate textures of the fabrics and techniques – luckily you can ask the staff for samples where you can do just that, and really experience every aspect of these pieces.
3/ Music: Beyoncé
What an absolute treat we were given this dreary February in the form of not one, but two new songs by the unparalleled Beyoncé.
After some incredible Renaissance bangers which we’ve had on repeat in the studio, Texas Hold ‘Em and 16 Carriages have been gladly welcomed onto the playlist. These two new tracks are heavily hinting at a country inspired Act ii, which begs the question, is there a genre that Beyoncé can’t pull off?!
4/ TV Show: Mortimer and Whitehouse - Gone Fishing
While this may not be something totally new, I can’t help but keep coming back to Gone Fishing, so feel it deserves a mention! You don’t have to be a fan of fishing at all to enjoy this show, but if you’re looking for a heart warming, funny and relaxing watch, then I suggest you tune in.
What sets this show apart is its authenticity. The show follows the fishing adventures of comedians Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse as they explore the picturesque landscapes of the British countryside. Mortimer and Whitehouse's friendship shines through every episode, making it feel like you're joining two old friends on their fishing trips. Their banter is witty, their laughter infectious, and their shared love for fishing is palpable.
Overall Gone Fishing is a wholesome and uplifting TV show that celebrates friendship, nature, and the joy of slowing down and appreciating life's simple pleasures. Definitely one to watch when you want an evening of serene escapism from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
5/ Film: Iron Claw
Something I’m sure you’ve picked up if you’ve been following London Eye for a while is that I’m a big fan of cinema and a trip to the movies. And in the past few months we certainly have been given some excellent films to get lost in.
A big hitter for me this year was Iron Claw, which is based on the true story of the Von Erich wrestling family in 1980s Texas. With incredible performances from Zac Efron and Jeremy Allen White, the film portrays the theatrical and dramatic world of wrestling, as well as the true athleticism and dedication required by its competitors. Iron Claw is another fantastic example of art grappling with themes of identity, as the film tackles what it means when your identity is so inherently tied to one thing (in this case wrestling).
Far from a rose-tinted depiction of show business and fame, Iron Claw dives into the troubles and tragedy that followed the Von Erich family, which they believed to be a curse that stained their household. The film insightfully handles themes of toxic masculinity and violence, as well as the beauty and sincerity of brotherhood. Make sure you have your tissues ready because Iron Claw certainly is a tearjerker, but a movie not to be missed.
6/ Book: The Creative Act - A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
As a photographer I am always looking for books to inspire my creativity, and when The Creative Act hit the shelves, it seemed like a no brainer.
Written by Def Jam Records co-founder Rick Rubin, The Creative Act is an encyclopaedia of creative experience and wisdom, based on the mantra that creativity belongs to everyone. It explores the process of creativity and encourages you to push the limits and boundaries of your creative practice and artistic identity, while supporting you with various techniques throughout.
It’s an easy cover to cover read, but that doesn’t mean you’ll then put it on your shelf never to revisit it. I expect I’ll be referring to this book for a long time, and diving back into Rubin’s world every time I am in search of some inspiration.
7/ Book and Exhibition: Blood Sweat and Tears by Jody Evans
It’s difficult not be constantly shouting out the work of my team when I am surrounded by such brilliant creativity, so here we go again! You might recognise their name from a previous London Eye piece of mine; photographer Jody Evans.
Jody has recently finished their first ever book, Blood Sweat and Tears, and is hosting an exhibition at the Photobook Café in London in March to launch it. In this book Jody captures 20 queer people in their workplaces, homes, and studios where they make and create. Blood Sweat and Tears documents the gritty reality of the creative hustle, and how it exists beyond the mirage of social media.
In Jody’s own words, “Blood Sweat and Tears is an ode to grafters, and a love letter to the friends and family who never cease to inspire.”
I cannot wait for Jody’s book launch and solo exhibition on the 28th March – tickets are available via the PhotoBook Cafe!
8/ Haircuts4Homeless
I’m sure many of Tribute’s readers know Haircuts4Homeless and its founder, the wonderful Stewart Roberts. What you may not know is that this year marks the 10th anniversary of Haircuts4Homeless – such an incredible landmark for a charity that is truly changing people’s lives for the better!
To mark this milestone with the charity we’ve been joining Stewart at his sessions this year and capturing stills and video of the guests, and talking to them about how they feel about the work that Haircuts4Homeless does.
Our aim for creating this content is to help bring in new sponsorship for the charity so that they can continue doing their amazing work, and as always it is a joy to chat to the guests, hear their stories, and learn about the impact that Haircuts4Homeless has had on them.
You can find out more about the charity, and what you can do to be part of their efforts, at www.haircuts4homeless.com.
