Gerhard Richter's Influence Revives British Painting in the 1990s

In 1994, the British art scene experienced a revival in painting, highlighted by significant exhibitions at the Hayward Gallery and John Hansard Gallery, along with solo displays at Interim Art, Victoria Miro, and the Saatchi Collection. This resurgence came after a period of neglect for artists such as David Hockney and Richard Hamilton. The Turner Prize shortlist indicated a disconnection, prioritizing international exhibitions over local talent. A new wave of painters in their 30s, inspired by Gerhard Richter, emerged, particularly following his influential 1990s ICA exhibition. Artists like Paula Rego, Peter Doig, and Jenny Saville received acclaim, while others pursued organic abstraction. Despite this revival, the establishment still leaned towards European artists, as reflected in the Hayward Gallery's choices. The article was published in April 1994 and reappeared in March 2019.