Delusions of Grandeur: Grayson Perry at The Wallace Collection

On March 28, the Wallace Collection unveils an exhibition by Sir Grayson Perry, one of the United Kingdom’s most renowned contemporary artists and cultural figures. Timed to coincide with the artist’s 65th birthday, Grayson Perry: Delusions of Grandeur reflects on the very essence of creating and collecting art. More than 40 new works, including ceramics, sculptures, textiles, and works on paper, beautifully complement the richness and diversity of the Collection itself. Afisha.London attended the opening and shares insights into the exhibition.

Inspired by the lives and works of outsider artists previously showcased at the museum, Perry created a fictional persona — Shirley Smith — who believes she is the rightful heir to the treasures of Hertford House and, indeed, the entire collection. Through this character, Perry has produced a series of unique artworks, each drawing on items from the collection to embellish an imagined family home, complete with ancestral portraits, Old Masters paintings, and priceless antiques. The artist playfully unveils this fantastical world, exploring themes such as the meaning of home, the sense of safety it provides, the gendering of decoration, the tension between perfection and authenticity, and the pursuit of elegance and beauty.

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Grayson Perry has long been captivated by the contrast between the refined femininity of French Rococo and the brutal masculinity of arms and armour. The artist recalls being struck by this dichotomy in his youth when he first saw François Boucher’s iconic portrait of Madame de Pompadour. Historically rigid gender roles have become a central motif in Perry’s work. He also explores the nature of craftsmanship and the pursuit of perfection. Intricately handcrafted objects are displayed alongside works created with digital technology, juxtaposing pieces that took thousands of hours to complete with those generated at the click of a button. Through this contrast, Perry invites viewers to reflect on issues of authenticity and the artist’s role in the future.

Each artwork showcases a variety of mixed media and styles that Perry has developed throughout his long and celebrated career. Reflecting the richness of the collection, the artist employed the broadest range of techniques, genres, and forms he has ever used in a single exhibition. Perry’s boldness — his willingness to provoke and question while portraying contemporary society in all its splendour and absurdity — undoubtedly offers a fresh perspective on the museum’s classical collection.

Grayson Perry: Delusions of Grandeur is on public display at the Wallace Collection from March 28 to October 26.

Cover photo: Afisha.London

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