Shadow on canvas

摘要

Artist Shubha Taparia's latest project Crescent furthers her exploration of themes of transition and impermanence, specifically using the urban environment as metaphor for the human body and spirit. Following on from recent work in a similar vein (see Tubes and Wooden Planks, 2019, and Silhouette of an Unknown Landscape, 2018, pictured), a chance encounter with John Nash's curved terrace on the edge of Regent's Park, London - until recently shrouded in scaffolding - prompted Taparia to reimagine and recontextualise the notion of urban transformation. The outcome is a monumental site-specific work, mirroring a building site veiled behind an enigmatic, diaphanous canvas curving the entire length of her northwest London studio. The drama of the lighting and scale of the work draws attention to the innate theatricality of urban environments. While visitors can catch a glimpse around the back of a restricted 'no entry' zone, the work is otherwise viewed as a front fac.ade of silhouetted shapes and patterns projected on to the canvas, measuring 18m in length; 6m from floor to ceiling; and nearly 3m deep. re, London NW2.