Performing for the Camera at Tate Modern 

Photography and performance are generally examined as separate artistic forms of expression, but the Tate Modern is now bringing to light the intimate connection many artists make between the creative practices. This exhibition includes a variety of images taken in the past 150 years, each focusing on a different aspect of performance. The artists of each set of photos provide an explanation for the creative relationship they feel exists. Spanning across a range of divided categories, this thought-provoking exhibition is not one to be missed.

Upon entering, there are 14 rooms to explore, all of which concentrate on various performance acts. With Documenting Performance, Staging/Collaboration and Photographic Actions, to name a few, the exhibition manages to cover a great deal of artistic viewpoints. Alongside this, each set of images captures a completely different subject from the next. While one of the first sections focuses on the process of creating a performance, including planning and rehearsals, one of the very last sections takes a look at performance in real life and the ever-changing relationship between photography in everyday situations. The vibrant use of colour is key in creating a nostalgic experience for the viewer as they travel through all 14 rooms.

Not limited to one artist, this photographic experience includes images from innovators such as Charles Ray, Carolee Schneemann and Erwin Wurm. Ranging from serious still-portraits to humourous mass-media productions, the display keeps the viewer’s interest throughout. It also manages to instill a sense of perception, as it makes them think about photographs in a completely new way, whether that is movie posters seen on a billboard, an oil painting in a museum, or even a socially glorified selfie on a site such as Facebook. Nonetheless, this exhibition is an incredibly unique and modern take on the cultural relationship shared between photography and artistic performance. Definitely a must-see.

Reha Sandill

Performing for the Camera is at Tate Modern from 18^th February until 12^th June 2016, for further information visit here.