Ahh, the year 2000. What a year, hey? The year of Oops!…I Did It Again, Shackles (Praise You), Can’t Fight the Moonlight… sorry, I’m getting sidetracked. As brilliant a year as it was in the world of music; it was arguably an even better year in the world of art – because the year 2000 saw the arrival of the world’s most popular museum of modern and contemporary art, Tate Modern.
That’s right, the city’s leading modern art spot is hitting the quarter of a century milestone next year – and throwing the ultimate birthday bash to mark the occasion. From May 9 – 12, a trail of artwork will be installed at the gallery. But not just any artwork. 25 of the most important works of art that have been displayed at Tate Modern over the past 25 years. It seems as though there truly ain’t no party like a Tate Modern party.
What artworks are returning for the Tate Modern turns 25 trail?
Louise Bourgeois’ ‘Maman‘ will kick off the celebratory trail. The 10 metre tall spider sculpture was the very first piece of art to be installed into the Turbine Hall back in 2000, and will be the starting point of the 25 much-loved pieces. Other returning work will include Mark Rothko’s Seagram murals (which are currently on display at sister site, Tate St Ives) and an immersive multi-screen film installation but Nalini Malani. Visitors can also expect to feast their eyes on a series of live tarot readings as part of Meschac Gaba’s installation and Dorothea Tanning’s Eine Kleine Nachtmusik (which has recently returned from a major exhibition in Paris).
The gallery will come to life throughout the day and well into the evenings, too – with live music performances, pop-up talks and tours, a drop-in making studio, and plenty of food and drink offers. It sounds a whole lot classier than my 25th birthday party, that’s for sure…
Karin Hindsbo, Director of Tate Modern, said “Tate Modern has made an incredible impact in just 25 years. It has exploded the canon of art history, transformed the public’s relationship with contemporary art, and rewritten the rules for what an art museum can be. Our birthday weekend will be a wonderful chance to see what we do best and get a taste of where we’re going next – and all for free!”
Catherine Wood, Tate Modern’s Director of Programme, said “We wanted to celebrate our 25th anniversary with a capsule collection of 25 key works, which will lead visitors around the whole building on a journey from old favourites to new discoveries. The selection showcases how art – and Tate Modern itself – has always pushed the boundaries and challenged norms, ultimately letting us all see the world through new eyes.”
Tate Modern turns 25 will be taking place from May 9 – May 12, 2025.
📍 Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG.