Anish Kapoor on the Death of Radicalism in Art

Anish Kapoor, ahead of a major exhibition at the Hayward Gallery in London, criticizes the contemporary art world for losing its radical edge. In an interview with the Financial Times, Kapoor discusses capitalism, identity politics, and his own artistic practice, which he describes as 'archaic alchemy.' The exhibition, which opens in 2024, will showcase his large-scale sculptures and installations, including works that explore themes of void, materiality, and the sublime. Kapoor, known for works like 'Cloud Gate' in Chicago and 'Sky Mirror' in New York, reflects on the commercialization of art and the pressures of the market. He argues that identity politics has become a substitute for genuine political engagement in art. The Hayward show will feature both new and existing pieces, highlighting Kapoor's use of materials such as stainless steel, pigment, and wax. The artist, born in Mumbai and based in London, has been a prominent figure in contemporary art since the 1980s.