Exhibition of the Tate collection

Tate

Tate’s vision is to serve as one of the most artistically adventurous and culturally inclusive art museums for the UK and the world.

Tate delivers this through activities in its four UK galleries (Tate Liverpool, Tate St Ives, Tate Britain and Tate Modern), its digital platforms and collaborations with national and international partners.

At the heart of Tate is its art collection, which includes British art from the 16th century to the present day and international modern art from 1900 to the present day.

‘Tate is delighted to be working with the WOW cultural quarter to present The Dynamic Eye at the Atkinson Museum. WOW’s ambition to create a unique cultural destination in Porto is a bold and welcome endeavour. The combination of art, gastronomy and a careful selection of shopping and hospitality venues is an important contribution to the Portuguese cultural scene. As a new ‘cultural quarter’ in Porto, WOW encompasses a variety of innovative spaces for local and global audiences. Visitors, from art enthusiasts to families, can relax, be inspired and immerse themselves in culture, world-renowned exhibitions and gastronomic experiences. WOW is leading the way in Porto, creating a new model of cultural engagement for everyone. Tate is delighted to be able to contribute to this mission through our collaboration’

Neil McConnon, Director of International Partnerships, Tate.

The Collection

During the 1950s and 1960s, many artists began to incorporate mathematical theories, scientific research and colour theory into their work, and some began to use computers to create images.

These artists saw the viewer not as a passive observer, but as an active participant, interacting with the art in real time and space. Their works often trigger complex visual sensations, activated by the viewer’s perception of shape, colour and pattern. Sometimes this effect is intensified by the inclusion of kinetic elements, which create real or perceived movement.

Optical art emerged during this period. Artists combined simple lines, geometric shapes and bright colours to create optical effects and illusions. Kinetic Art was closely associated with Optical Art, encompassing art that uses motors, moving elements and energy sources that challenge art as a static form.

This exhibition revisits Optical and Kinetic Art from a global perspective. It interweaves artists such as Victor Vasarely, Jesús Rafael Soto, Alexander Calder and Frank Stella, who are closely associated with these movements as well as their predecessors and contemporary practitioners.