Midsummer 1967 - 1968

Curator: Here we have Eric Malthouse's "Midsummer," part of the Tate Collections, though its exact date remains unknown. Editor: It's immediately striking – a raw, almost melancholic scene. The rigid lines of the building contrast with the faded mural, and the rows of cars evoke a sense of abandonment. Curator: Malthouse often engaged with public art and its role in urban spaces. The mural, juxtaposed with the mundane reality of a parking lot, speaks volumes about the relationship between art and everyday life. Consider how that public role also influences the politics of imagery. Editor: Yes, the imagery itself is fascinating. The figures in the mural, though abstract, suggest a primal energy – perhaps evoking ancient midsummer rituals and a yearning for connection to the natural world. They're almost like ghosts haunting this very modern landscape. Curator: It highlights how art can exist in tension with its surroundings, prompting viewers to question their own place within these contrasting landscapes. Editor: It makes you ponder the symbols we choose to elevate in our public spaces, and what those choices say about us. Curator: Indeed. Malthouse provides a compelling case study in public engagement. Editor: A thought-provoking piece, offering a unique perspective on the midsummer theme.