Art gallery that offers big names and new ideas
It began life as the ArtSpace. But that was too abstract a name for such an interesting and personal take on the art world. In 2010, the gallery was renamed According to McGee, which reflects the unique perspective of its owners, former secondary-school teachers Greg and Ails McGee. Since then, the gallery and the McGees have flourished. They have showcased contemporary art in all its forms, championed artists from close to home and across the world, and been active participants in shaping a cultural shift which is moving York from conservative to cutting edge.
Found opposite Clifford’s Tower, the remains of a castle from William the Conqueror’s time, this modernist gallery could not offer more of a contrast. There’s always something new and interesting to see.
Info
Address 8 Tower St, York YO1 9SA, +44 (0)1904 671709, info@accordingtomcgee.com, www.accordingtomcgee.com | Public Transport 2-minute walk from Castle car park. Closest bus stop: Tower Street | Hours Mon–Fri 11am–5pm, Sat 10am–5pm| Tip Art lovers will also enjoy a trip to Chris Ceaser Photography (89 Micklegate), where Chris showcases his stunning landscape photos in the gallery.
Horace Panter, co-founder of iconic British ska band the Specials, chose to show his cassette paintings here. In 2015, former England cricket hero Ian Botham opened Jim Wheat’s exhibition of dollar-sign paintings. Not only did the event prompt a debate about the meaning of money, it also raised money for the gallery’s charity New Visuality, which supports young and disadvantaged artists. Jim said the art world can be intimidating, but “working alongside Greg and the family, you feel part of it.”
That was soon followed by the creation and display of a series of posters prompted by a city Twitterstorm. UNESCO awarded York “City of Media Arts” status in 2014, and while Greg McGee is a supporter, the decision provoked as much scepticism as celebration on Twitter. So Tweets reflecting all shades of opinion were turned into graphic posters and displayed at the gallery: fleeting social-media moments, captured and made collectible.
Described by Glamour magazine as “an exciting independent white cube gallery,” According to McGee is always worth a visit. And that’s according to artists from far and near.
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