Our critics' pick of the must-see art exhibitions in town this season
Since 1981, Philip Akkerman has painted only one subject – himself. If that seems like untrammelled egomania, then check out the Dutch artist’s show. No flattering self-depictions for him. Instead, you’ll find a handful of images from the past decade that reveal a serious, albeit self-effacing presence behind a shifting mask. For Akkerman, sorting out the ‘what’ to paint has enabled him to focus on the ‘how’ to paint, and his face becomes a carrier for moods and styles that range from the sedate to the psychedelic – such as ‘Self Portrait No 155’ (pictured). His project, which currently totals more than 3,000 self-portraits, is in the end less about capturing likeness than commemorating the passing of time – and in art that never goes out of fashion.
‘Philip Akkerman: 1, 2, 3’ is at Mummery + Schnelle until July 13.
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The number of portrait and self-portrait exhibitions currently on view in London proves that artists are still obsessed with capturing human likenesses – and that we never tire of looking at each other. The following four artists, each with a particular stance, reveal how this ancient tradition remains vital.
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