Liverpool Biennial review – AI seagulls, gladiatorial football and big trouble in Chinatown

Liverpool Biennial review – AI seagulls, gladiatorial football and big trouble in Chinatown

As I strolled through Liverpool, narrowly avoiding a seagull’s attempt to relieve itself on me, I couldn’t help but be captivated by Kara Chin’s whimsical installation in a local cinema. The reimagined seaside experience, complete with AI seagulls and chaotic electro-assemblages, transported me to a world of quirky charm. Despite Liverpool’s lack of proximity to the sea, the city came alive with the sounds of seagulls as I navigated between venues hosting the Liverpool Biennial art events.

The memories of my childhood visits to Liverpool flooded back when I set foot in a raw warehouse space transformed by Turkish artist Cevdet Erek. His homage to the fervor of soccer crowds resonated deeply with my love for football and loud music. The eerie yet ancient atmosphere he created, with a brick arena and pounding soundtrack, exuded a sense of intensity that transcended time and space. It was a visceral experience, reminiscent of gladiatorial spectacles and the communal energy of sporting events.

Within the confines of Liverpool’s Anglican cathedral, I encountered a tapestry by Cypriot artist Maria Loizidou depicting people ascending to the heavens with angels. The medieval-inspired imagery resonated with the cathedral’s grandeur, offering a poignant reflection on redemption and spirituality. As I explored the intersection of art and faith in Liverpool, I found myself drawn to the transcendent narratives woven into the city’s cultural fabric.

In a darkened corner of Liverpool’s Chinatown, Turner prize winner Elizabeth Price delved into the enigmatic history of Britain’s modernist Catholic churches. Her exploration of architectural evolution and religious symbolism through digital art and suspenseful storytelling captivated me, offering a fresh perspective on the intersection of faith and innovation. As the Liverpool Biennial unfolded with its mix of forgettable and profound art, I marveled at the depth of emotion and spirituality that permeated the city’s artistic landscape

Read the full article from The Guardian here: Read More