The show consists of a large sculpture and a series of short films. The sculpture draws on the history of Lambeth Ragged Schools built in 1851 by Henry Beaufoy, a 19th century philanthropist, for 1000 vagrant children, and now occupied by Beaconsfield Contemporary Art. Kasitonni has reimagined the classical impediment that once crowned the building. But in place of a traditional classical tableau of figures and a motto, he has let his imagination and humour run wild. The result is a 10 metre long surreal scene referencing popular culture and sci-fi aesthetics. Amidst exotic foliage, an elephant, a peacock, fish, utility vehicles, a genie with a lamp, the gallery cat and Starwars-like characters are just some of figures flanking Henry and his wife Elisa in a riot of shiny colour and kitsch. The title for the show is taken from the school’s motto – ‘Those that do teach young babes Do it with gentle means, and easy tasks’ – from Shakespeare’s Othello. The whole thing is a blast.
In the lower gallery are screened 12 short films, each about 10 minutes long. I sampled rather than sat through them. Often using animation, they are surreal and amusing takes on everyday life with little magic twists. I will happily return to see more.
Gentle Means and Easy Tasks runs until 26 April in Beaconsfield, 22 Newport Street, Vauxhall, SE11 6AY. Entry is free and the gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday 12 – 5pm.
For further information all 0207 582 465 or go to www.beaconsfield.ltd.uk
