Benedict Drew, Production image for The Trickle-Down Syndrome (detail), 2017. Drawing. Copyright Benedict Drew, courtesy of the Artist and Matt’s Gallery London
Benedict Drew, Installation view at the Whitechapel Gallery. Photo: John Phillips
Benedict Drew, Installation view at the Whitechapel Gallery. Photo: John Phillips
Benedict Drew, Installation view at the Whitechapel Gallery. Photo: John Phillips
Past Exhibition
7 June – 10 September 2017
“Prepare for 5 rooms that will take visitors on a sensory journey”
Evening Standard
Benedict Drew (b.1977) works across video, sculpture and music, creating large-scale multimedia installations which comment on the effects of socio-political and environmental issues. The artist’s most ambitious public presentation in the UK is on show at the Whitechapel Gallery this summer.
The Trickle-Down Syndrome is a new work comprising five connected yet distinct spaces which draw on wide-ranging references, from Hollywood director Busby Berkley’s 1930s stage-sets to the Surrealist landscapes of Max Ernst, continuing the artist’s exploration into materiality, where the physical and digital meet.
Through a dizzying array of vividly coloured screens, experimental compositions, large-scale banners, a tiered stage and an accompanying audio narrative, these works come together to take visitors on an emotional and sensory journey through the exhibition.
The title refers to a 1980s economic term used to describe the belief that benefits for the wealthy will eventually trickle down to the rest of society. Drew imagines its effects by using hand-drawn motifs, sculptures and kaleidoscopic projections.
Sat 1 Jul | Free entry
As part of Art Night 2017, artist Benedict Drew collaborates with a big band on a durational performance with video and live music.
Thu 10 Aug, 7pm | £9.50/7.50
Combining music and discussion, this event reflects on ideas around culture, reality and illusion, featuring the artist in conversation with writer Jonathan P. Watts.
