There Is a Bill Murray Art Exhibition in the UK
“I’m interested in his Murrayness.”
Although there are countless examples of artists creating works inspired by Wes Anderson films, the director whose films Bill Murray has starred in many times, this is the first time that we’ve heard of a large-scale art exhibition dedicated entirely to the iconic actor. When asked why he chose Murray to be his latest muse, artist Brian Griffith explained, “I’m interested in his Murrayness.” With the show titled “BILL MURRAY: a story of distance, size and sincerity,” the show is a whimsical ode to the Grand Budapest Hotel actor. The exhibition is currently running at Gateshead’s BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, and is a site-specific commission. Perfectly embodying the diversity and quirkiness that Murray has become known for, the series uses the actor’s versatility and likability as a focal point.
The showing highlights nine mini-models of varying structures (such as a Scottish mansion and an LA beach house) and embellishes the exteriors with reimagined activities of the actor in order to create a ‘fantasy caricature’ of his life. “I would call it a metaphysical adventure story with Bill,” Griffith muses. “For me, Bill is an object in the show and an image in the show. He has to some extent become my leading man.” The “BILL MURRAY” exhibition is currently showing and will run through to the end of February.
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
Gateshead Quays, S Shore Rd
Gateshead NE8 3BA, United Kingdom
