The Tomb of the Unknown Craftsman​​

In this exhibition, Grayson Perry celebrates the work made by unknown men and women throughout history from the British Museum, alongside his new work. 
He takes you on a journey through his imagination to explore cultures and themes, exploring Shamansim, magic identity and contemporary culture. All with the help of his favourite Teddy Alan Measles. 


It is apparent from the show that he has an interest in Japanese and African Culture. Temples and shrines feature in this exhibition, incorporating his beloved Teddy. 
His vases, for which he is most famous, are beautifully decorated. However, they lull you into a false sense of security as when you look closer they are not what they seem.

You have to look closely to see the sometimes quite dark and dangerous messages. I have always found them fascinating; seeing beautiful objects but having your senses pushed in another direction is really powerful. 


Everyone who knows Grayson Perry is aware that he is a transvestite who goes under the name of Claire. He touches on this at his show, always in a humorous way. As he says "one fact that every transvestite has to come to terms with is that a person dressed up is funny. This can be difficult and I feel this has profoundly shaped my outlook on life. I regard humour as an important necessary aspect of art".  
His sense of humour runs right through this show and as he says "The craftsman's anonymity I find especially resonant in an age of the celebrity artist".  
A memorable, thought provoking show. 
http://www.britishmuseum.org/whats_on/exhibitions/grayson_perry.aspx

Media watch

Interesting article in the New York Times entitled 'Hat Makers With Attitude'. Click on the link below

New York Times