We are thrilled to announce that the Tate has acquired two drawings by ActionSpace artist Nnena Kalu for their permanent collection. The pair of drawings titled Drawing 25 were created in situ as part of the exhibition To all the Kings who have no Crowns, curated by Jennifer Gilbert at Carl Freedman Gallery in 2022.
Nnena explores space, scale colour and texture through repetitive and durational processes, constructing a dynamic relationship between her body and material. Nnena created Drawing 25 systematically, working across two drawings at once, the second an echo of the first.
Responding to the rhythm, noise and physical experience of creating, they are a direct expression of Nnena’s physical movement dictated by the length and reach of Nnena’s arms as well as the size of the paper. It is through this immersive process a rhythm is built up and multiple layers constructed.
ActionSpace Co-Director, Sheryll Catto comments:
“The Tate acquiring Drawing 25 is a monumental moment for Nnena Kalu and ActionSpace. We are delighted that Nnena’s incredible artwork is now part of this important public collection. It is an acknowledgement of Nnena’s significant talent and recognition of the relevance of learning disabled voices in the contemporary visual arts.”
Photo credit: Carl Freedman Gallery, Margate
