Eko Eshun sort it out
14 May 07, 14:43
Below expectations
The ICA is a mixed art space covering three main gallery spaces, small theatre/live performance area, two cinema screens and a great little bar/restaurant.
While the bar and restaurant remain a safe bet when everywhere else starts to close (ICA bar open until 1am most nights), since Eko Eshun has taken over as Director the quality of the ICA's programme seems to have severely dropped.
During a time when ICA's programme of talks could never be more pertinent given the political climate, the breadth and quality of speakers and discussions seems to have faded away.
Rather than setting the agenda within London's ever growing film festival scene, the ICA seem to be a rent-a-venue add on to whatever festival is taking place. While Hans Hoffman's curated shows lack any real bite or big names.
I love the ICA, but I feel that it now severely lacks any real direction, something which rests heavily on Eko Eshun's shoulders. I suggest, he spends less time tinkering with the logo and brochure format (two changes in less than twelve months) and more on the substance its shows and programme.
