Sainsbury Centre Asks 'What Is the Meaning of Life?' in New Exhibition Season

The Sainsbury Centre in Norwich has launched a new exhibition season centered on the question 'What is the meaning of life?', featuring multiple shows that explore themes of nature, ritual, and play. The season includes 'Joy Like Time', an exhibition of works by Gillian Wearing, Kalliopi Lemos, and Marina Abramovic, on view until 15th November. Wearing's series from the 1990s features people holding signs with personal statements, which the reviewer finds still relevant today. Lemos presents ritual garments representing different cultures and religions, arranged among plants. Abramovic's photographs of herself biting her nails are described as intimate but anxiety-inducing. Also on view are 'Tree of Life' by Seyi Adelekun, a woven textile tree with a hollow center for visitors to sit inside, until 30th May 2027; 'Living by the Rule: Contemporary meets Medieval', which juxtaposes Benedictine monastic rules with Ingrid Pollard's lenticular work; and 'Play Power', featuring games like Yoko Ono's all-white chess set. The latter two are on until 4th October. All exhibitions are pay-if-you-can. The reviewer notes that while this season isn't the strongest, it offers plenty of engaging ideas and art.