Review: Tate Modern

Zoom out. What’s this place all about?
This former oil-fired power station sits smugly on the South Bank, knowing that you’re interested in what’s going on inside. It’s filled to the rafters with paintings and sculptures by the likes of Picasso, Dali, Warhol, and Rothko, all set off perfectly by that gritty industrial interior. The twisted brick Blavatnik Building extension has doubled the hanging space and does a nice line in river views from the top floor.

What will we find in the permanent collection?
The collections span 1,500 to the present day but are split into abstract themes rather than eras—don’t think too hard, just pick one and dive in. Among the vast range of works are classics, such as Sir John Everett Millais’ Ophelia to Henry Moore’s moving sculpture.

What about temporary exhibits?
It’s rare that any exhibition at Tate Modern is awaited with anything less than bated breath. Whether they’re the paid shows across the mid-levels of the institution or the vast and clever commissions to take over the massive space that is the Turbine Hall, you’re pretty much bound to be blown away. From Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms to the best of Andy Warhol, it’s always worth getting tickets to see whatever is on.

What did you make of the crowd?
Art lovers, trendy students, families and everyone in between, the Tate crowd is packed and varied and any given day you’ll find numerous tourists from everywhere as well as Londoners. Good art can never be held down!

On the practical tip, how were the facilities?
The halls and corridors are wide and spacious. You might have to wait a while for an elevator to the viewing platform at the top of the new extension, but be aware that the stairs and escalators are many.

Any guided tours worth trying?
There are free guided tours each day lasting around 45 minutes and each well worth your time—unless you’re a pro, some of the more abstract works benefit hugely from a backstory. Alternatively, download the app to plan your visit in advance or to simply follow its highlights tour.

Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged?
If you only see one thing, head straight to the grand Turbine Hall to see the temporary exhibition. They’re usually impressive sculptural works that don’t require too much browsing time.