Capacity

The Smallest Gallery in Soho is delighted to present a new installation by London based artist James Tailor.

Under unique circumstances our galley where art is only to be viewed from the street, is a cultural location that can be visited whilst social distancing.

A global commentary on Covid-19, the installation incorporates attributes of outbreak, anxiety, restriction of movement, and isolation, and highlights the strains and dangers faced by NHS and key-workers, emergency services, delivery and supermarket workers, businesses, the self-employed and the claustrophobia the general public feel being asked to stay at home.

In this instance, a pre-existing loaned inflatable from Megaflatables of a Teddy Bear - often seen as a symbol of innocence and comfort - has been installed, against Pantone 300 background, the signature colour of the NHS, acting as a symbol of hope.

At full capacity the inflatable is twice the size of the interior, creating a visual illusion as the work expands to what seems like a bursting point and then deflates each hour. This acts as an oversized visual representation of the anxious breath and magnifies the restrictive nature of the space while keeping viewers engaged.

About the Artist:
James Tailor is an artist based in London, after finishing his MA at Central St Martins in 2018 he was awarded the Helen Scott Lidgett, Acme Studio award. During his time studying at CSM he interned with the Chapman Brothers as well as being chosen to go to Japan and create site specific art in response to Ritsurin Gardens. He went on to assist Phyllida Barlow alongside his own practice upon graduation.  He has since shown in London and internationally, and makes work for The Public Gallery as well as currently planning shows with ASC gallery - London, and Galeria Algeria - Spain. Tailor has made a big impact on the scene already and is proud to include Adidas, Nick Knight, Kanye West and more as collaborators, patrons or collectors of his work. 

www.jamestailor.co.uk

@jamestailor