Key Highlights
- Dame Tracey Emin says her artwork “My Bed” would be “tidy”, “clean” and “boring” if made today.
- The controversial 1998 artwork sold for over £2.5 million at auction in 2014.
- Emin’s new retrospective exhibition at Tate Modern opens on March 1, 2024.
- She reveals that the bed saved her life during a messy phase of her youth and young womanhood.
The Evolution of Art: A Reflective Look Back
Dame Tracey Emin, one of Britain’s most celebrated artists, has opened up about how her iconic 1998 artwork “My Bed” would look different if she created it today. In an interview with the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, Emin stated that the piece would be “ridiculously clean,” featuring “very, very beautiful sheets.” She added, with a mix of resignation and reflection, that “it would be so boring, actually.”
The artwork, which depicted a messy bedroom scene complete with cigarettes, alcohol, underwear, and condoms, caused quite a stir when it was first exhibited at the Tate Gallery in 1998. Emin’s raw honesty and unapologetic approach to her art made headlines and sparked conversations about the nature of art itself.
The Legacy of “My Bed”: A Critical Moment in Art History
Reflecting on the impact of “My Bed,” Emin has shared that it saved her life during a tumultuous phase. She said, “I think it’s because I nearly lost my life in that bed. That bed kept me alive.” This statement underscores the personal and emotional significance behind the work, making it more than just an artistic display but a testament to resilience.
At Tate Modern, where the retrospective exhibition “A Second Life” is currently on view, visitors can experience the original artwork once again. The piece has been loaned back to the gallery for this special exhibition, providing a unique opportunity for new generations of art lovers to engage with Emin’s groundbreaking work.
A Diverse Career: From YBA to Damehood
As she stands at 62 years old and reflects on her artistic journey, Dame Tracey Emin remains passionate about the role of creativity in society. She told Kuenssberg that she feels “hideously drunk” on art when painting late at night or early morning. This insight into her creative process adds depth to her public persona, highlighting both the physical toll and profound emotional investment required for her work.
Emin’s retrospective also explores some of her personal regrets, such as smoking and engaging in sexually exploitative situations during her youth.
She emphasized that these experiences have shaped not only her art but also her advocacy for social issues like child abuse and mental health awareness. By openly discussing these topics, Emin aims to foster a more compassionate society.
Artistic Vision: A Blend of Past and Present
In the midst of this retrospective, Dame Tracey Emin’s words resonate with a certain wisdom born from experience. She advises her younger self to quit smoking, stating, “The first thing I’d say to my younger self is ‘Put it out and never do it again.'” This advice carries weight not just for personal health but as a broader message about making responsible choices.
Reflecting on the evolution of art and society, Emin’s comments offer a poignant reminder that while her work may have changed in presentation, its core message—about life, struggle, and survival—remains constant. As she prepares to open up new chapters in her artistic narrative at Tate Modern, one cannot help but wonder what fresh insights future exhibitions will bring.
