LISBON.- A powerful new exhibition, "Tide Line," has opened at the Centro de Arte Moderna Gulbenkian, charting a course from Portugal's 1974 revolution to the present day, exploring ongoing societal shifts, particularly those concerning our planet. The exhibition offers a conversation across time and mediums, inviting visitors to reflect on our relationship with the world around us.
Entering the gallery feels like stepping into a dynamic ecosystem. Large-scale installations establish the atmosphere, creating a rhythm that resonates with surrounding pieces. Curators have woven together a tapestry of key themes transgression against the former dictatorship, a pioneering artistic ecological manifesto, the introspective nature of art, technological and post-human evolution, and a poignant reminder of our bond with the natural world.
A key strength of "Tide Line" is the dialogue between contemporary and modernist works. This interplay highlights the breadth of the museum's collection, creating a palpable tension between different eras and artistic styles. The exhibition's title, borrowed from Hamish Fulton's work Tide Line (1994-2005), provides a powerful metaphor. Like a tide line marking the meeting point of two currents at sea, the exhibition explores the confluence of ideas, emotions, and experiences.
The idea of this organic coming together is central, explains [Quote a curator if available, or paraphrase the museum's statement]. It speaks to nature, our inner lives, the borders we create, the impact of destruction, and the ongoing nature of revolution.
The museum space itself has undergone a transformation. Designed by the Diogo Passarinho studio, the conventional gallery has become an "organic" environment, prompting visitors to reconsider their relationship with the living world. This immersive design enhances the emotional impact of the artwork, drawing viewers into the core themes.
Approximately 80 works are on display, many being recent acquisitions shown for the first time. The exhibition features pieces by renowned artists such as Mónica de Miranda, Filipa César, Graça Pereira Coutinho, and Paulo Nozolino. Adding another layer of interest, artist Gabriel Abrantes created a new video work commissioned specifically for "Tide Line." The exhibition showcases a diverse range of mediums, including painting, drawing, film, video, photography, sculpture, and installation, ensuring a rich and engaging experience.
"Tide Line" offers an invitation to contemplate our place in the world, past, present, and future. The exhibition runs until 11 May, 2026.