Turner Contemporary gallery in Kent has opened a significant new exhibition showcasing the work of influential British artist Bridget Riley. The comprehensive show, titled "Learning to See," features 26 artworks by the 94-year-old painter and will run through May 4th, offering free admission to visitors.
The exhibition presents a diverse collection spanning multiple decades of Riley's career, including pieces from the late 1960s that helped establish her reputation, wall paintings created within the last ten years, and her most recent canvas works. This range allows visitors to experience the evolution of Riley's distinctive artistic practice over time.
Senior curator Melissa Blanchflower emphasized the importance of experiencing Riley's work in person, stating that the Margate gallery is "inviting the public to come and have this visual experience" because nothing can replace "being in front of the painting." Blanchflower worked closely with Riley herself during the planning process, describing it as "a great privilege to spend time with her."
The curator revealed that her collaboration with Riley deepened her understanding of the artist's work significantly. "I've seen many other exhibitions by her in the past and thought I knew quite a lot about her work," Blanchflower told the BBC. "Really delving into a lot of her more recent practice with her has really given me this much deeper appreciation for her practice." She added that "the whole experience of bringing these constellations together adds something new."
The exhibition's title "Learning to See" holds special significance, as it was inspired by correspondence between French painters Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin. This historical connection reflects Riley's deep engagement with art history and the continuing dialogue between artists across generations.
Beyond the main exhibition, Turner Contemporary is also displaying some of Riley's preparatory drawings, giving visitors insight into her creative process. Additionally, the gallery will operate a drawing studio offering public classes for the next year that are "inspired" by Riley's techniques and approach, according to Blanchflower. This educational component extends the exhibition's impact and provides hands-on learning opportunities for community members interested in exploring artistic techniques.
