Barnett Newman retrospective at Tate Modern offers first major survey in 30 years

The Tate Modern in London is hosting the first major retrospective of Barnett Newman since 1971-1972, from September 20, 2002 to January 5, 2003. Curated by Ann Temkin, the exhibition previously opened at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It presents a chronological survey of Newman's work, starting with surrealist drawings from 1944-1945 and tracing the development of his signature 'zip' motif. Highlights include the reunion of the triangular paintings 'Chartres' and 'Jericho', and the complete set of the fourteen 'Stations of the Cross', never before lent by the National Gallery of Washington. The exhibition includes major works such as 'Uriel' (1955, 243.8 x 548.6 cm) and 'Anna's Light' (1968, 275 x 610.5 cm), but notably omits 'Cathedra', 'Voice of Fire' (1967), and 'Vir Heroicus Sublimis', as well as sculptures like 'Broken Obelisk' and 'Lace Curtain for Mayor Daley'. The catalogue features essays by Richard Shiff on Newman's artistic legacy and a detailed biography by Ann Temkin, based on interviews with the artist's widow, Analee Newman. Temkin addresses Newman's Jewish identity and his relationships with dealers, offering a fresh perspective on the artist's work and its reception.