You should be in charge

New London gallery Work opens its doors on Friday with an exhibition of work by Bob and Roberta Smith, called You Should Be in Charge.

Topical as ever, Bob and Roberta Smith’s work for You Should Be In Charge explores the controversial theme of proportional representation in government, as May’s referendum approaches.

You should be in charge
You should be in charge

It’s the first show that will appear at Work, which is an affiliate of London-based publisher Black Dog. The gallery, which was previously called the Black Dog Space, will, similarly to the publisher, support independent artists, designers and creatives that might otherwise go under the radar.

by Bob and Roberta Smith
by Bob and Roberta Smith

The space has had its name change on account of its new focus on artists, designers and architects – rather than the much broader remit of the magazine – and most of the work on show will have a political or environmental angle.

As well as addressing proportional representation, Bob and Roberta Smith’s exhibition will feature paintings and installations that aim to harness the sentiments of a range of historical protest movements, from the Situationists to Punk.

by Bob and Roberta Smith
by Bob and Roberta Smith

Part of the exhibition will propose Esther’s Law, which would ensure that different social groups were represented in the same proportion as they exist in UK society in parliament. Currently this would mean the commons would be 50 per cent female and 7 – 8 per cent of MPs would be disabled.

It’s relevant and provocative exhibition, and a high-profile opener for Work.

by Bob and Roberta Smith
by Bob and Roberta Smith

Bob and Roberta Smith, You Should Be In Charge runs from 1 April – 3 June at Work, 10A Acton Street, London WC1X.

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