A major group exhibition of sculptures and installations that explored perception and space.

Featuring 20 artists and spanning a period of roughly 50 years, the exhibition included innovative, minimalist sculpture from the 1960s as well as recent works that extend the legacy of this ‘optical’ minimalism in different ways. It also featured new commissions that have been made in response to the architecture of the Hayward Gallery.

Many of the artworks in this exhibition were constructed from translucent materials such as glass, acrylic and polyester resins. Others involved the use of reflective materials, including stainless steel, polished bronze and, in one case, engine oil. Luscious and seductive – and often demonstrating huge technical accomplishment – these objects act as optical devices that enable us to see our surroundings in new and unexpected ways. In bringing together artworks that activate our perception of Hayward’s unique building, Space Shifters provided a dramatic and fitting conclusion to the gallery’s 50th anniversary year.