Richard Hamilton, until 26^th May, Tate Modern

Richard Hamilton (1922-2011)
Just what is it that makes today’s homes so different,so appealing? 1956, reconstructed in 1992
Cibachrome
Collage
26 x 25 cm
Private collection
© The estate of Richard Hamilton

There can really be little doubt that Richard Hamilton (1922-2011) ranks highly among 20^th century British artists and so it is fitting that his life work is celebrated in this wide-ranging retrospective.

Richard Hamilton (1922-2011)
Swingeing London 67 (f) 1968-9
Tate
© The estate of Richard Hamilton

It really does include all elements of his work – paintings, design, photography and television as well as his collaborations with fellow artists.  He was at the start of British Pop Art  and an interest in popular and political culture, be it celebrities or more serious events such as the Kent State shootings or the IRA “dirty protests” is reflected in strong works.

Richard Hamilton (1922-2011)
The Citizen 1981-3
Tate
© The estate of Richard Hamilton

Others underline the fact that he was very much interested in architecture, interiors and design and for this show there are two recreations of his installations – Growth and Form 1951 and Lobby 1985-7.  There are also a further two installations – Man, Machine and Motion (1955) and an Exhibit (1957) – on show at the ICA until the 6^th April.

Richard Hamilton (1922-2011)
Interior II 1964
Tate
© The estate of Richard Hamilton

www.tate.org.uk

PS.  You can still just catch Richard Hamilton: Word and Image. Prints 1963-2007 at the Alan Cristea Gallery