‘The Art of Chess’ exhibition at Saatchi Gallery begins Sept. 8 | Art News

Said to have originated in India around the 7th century, Chess, formerly known as “Chaturanga,” has long been a popular choice for contemporary artists. The Saatchi Gallery’s upcoming exhibition The Art of Chess explores the 21st century take on the classic game with specially-commissioned pieces from artists such as Damien Hirst, Yayoi Kusama, Tracey Emin and Rachel Whiteread — whose love of dollhouses inspired her to create the miniature furniture pieces.

Presented in association with Hugo Boss, the exhibition houses 16 chess sets (the first time they will be displayed together), including two debut pieces from British artists Tim Noble and Sue Webster. Having already traveled several continents and growing considerably in size, it’s only right that the exhibition, which originally started with five pieces at Somerset House back in 2003, returns to the capital.

One of the intrigues about this popular game is that the fundamentals haven’t changed in almost 1400 years. The exhibition shows the artists’ take on the pieces of the game, with some fascinating substitutes and interpretations.

The Art of Chess exhibition runs from 8 September – 3 October 2012 at Saatchi Gallery. For more info, visit Saatchi-Gallery.co.uk.

VENUE: SAATCHI GALLERY – Duke of York’s HQ | King’s Road | London | SW3 4RY
DATES: September 8th – October 3rd 2012
PRICE: FREE

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