Exhibition by Es Devlin to open at Somerset House in November
An immersive exhibition brings Devlin’s studio to life, featuring poignant portraits of refugees that highlight their stories and celebrate the power of human connection.
Congregation by Es Devlin Photo Daniel Devlin.
Es Devlin’s upcoming exhibition, Face to Face – 50 Encounters with Strangers, will open at Somerset House on 23 November 2024, inviting visitors to experience the power of human connection through art. Curated by Ekow Eshun in collaboration with The Courtauld, King’s College London, and UNHCR UK, the exhibition recreates the artist’s studio while featuring a new edition of her acclaimed Congregation installation. Attendees will first step into a reproduction of Devlin’s creative space before entering a second area showcasing the newly projection-mapped Congregation. This immersive experience also includes painted LED screens and projection-mapped portraits that highlight the personal stories of individuals who have sought refuge in London.
Eman Elsafi in portrait session with Es Devlin. Photo by Samin Saadat.
The exhibition’s title draws inspiration from Emmanuel Lévinas’s philosophical essay Totality and Infinity, which explores the nuances of face-to-face interactions. Over four months, Devlin engaged with 50 strangers, each of whom has a unique story of seeking asylum in London. In a distinctive artistic approach, she began each portrait session by drawing her sitters without prior knowledge of their experiences. After 45 minutes of silent reflection, she paused to hear their narratives, allowing their stories to inform the completion of each portrait. Each individual is depicted holding a gift—a box containing an animated projection that represents their journey and contributions to the diverse community of London.
Es Devlin Studio. Photo by Es Devlin.
In addition to the striking visuals, the exhibition features a sound installation by London-based duo Polyphonia, which combines poetry and music to enhance the emotional resonance of the artworks. Face to Face not only highlights the artistic process but also sparks important conversations about the resilience and dignity of displaced individuals. Devlin expresses the impact of these encounters, stating, “These Londoners’ stories of dignified resilience made me proud to call myself a Londoner too.”
Date: 23 November 2024 - 12 January 2025. Location: Somerset House. somersethouse.org.uk