Tate Liverpool - A beautiful gallery full of contemporary art

What is Tate Liverpool?

Tate Liverpool is an art gallery that is located in the heart of Liverpool. They hold a number of exhibitions, festivals and displays that take place throughout the year.

Exhibitions

JMW Turner with Lamin Fofana: Dark Waters

This Exhibition presents JMW Turner’s work in a new immersive way with music created by Lamin Fofana.

Turners artwork is truly incredible in transporting us to the seas. It features beautiful details of ships and breath taking landscapes. In addition, the music brings the works to life and adds a sprinkle of magic.

It was also relatable in the issues that they represented and this included the power and politics of the ocean. They also focused on the dangers of the waters around the British Coast. This was done with simplicity and style.

However most of the artwork were of ships and boats. I would have loved to have seen some variety in the works such as including people or conveying their body language in the artworks. It would also have been more engaging if there was some video footage or to have a interactive element included too.

Ideas Depot

The Ideas Depot is a dynamic collection of artwork that is chosen with primary school children that is designed to be enjoyed by everyone no matter what their age is.

This was one of the highlights of the visit as it had an eclectic collection of artwork that was unique and eye-catching. Some used everyday kitchen utensils to create a piece of art that was exciting.

Some of the artwork that caught my eye was a camera that took the same scene in different angles, a staircase that was quirky and more. It was engaging and it makes you appreciate art in new ways.

The Liverpool Biennial

It was the biggest collection of artwork where it is created using objects that you use on a regular basis. Some that stood out and were intriguing was a chair made out of beads and a piece that was made out of cuscus. Incredible. It is contemporary art at its best and it uses your imagination in mindboggling ways.

Entry and Pricing

Entry to the collections at Tate Liverpool is free of charge. In relation to the special exhibitions then you are required to book a timed slot and pay online. For further details then check out the Tate Liverpool website.

Facilities

Tate Liverpool has a café that serves a selection of sandwiches and hot meals. They also offer hot and cold drinks too. It is on the pricey side. An alternative is the food and drink vans near the Docks to which you can sit down to eat whilst enjoying the lovely views.

Toilets are on site.

Lighting and Access

Lighting at the JMW Turner Exhibition was OK but was not great as some aspects were done in dim lighting. Despite this we overcome the challenge to the best of my ability. The lighting in the collections was decent and I could see most of the artwork which helped me to enjoy my experience here.

In relation to access at Tate Liverpool there are stairs and lifts to all floors so if you have mobility issues then use the lifts as it would be easier to navigate.

Parking

Tate Liverpool does not have its own designated car park however there is plenty of pay and display parking near the Docks and Museum. Payment is required even if you have a Blue Badge.

If you love contemporary art that is engaging and fun that plays with your mind and senses then Tate Liverpool is the place for you.