Glass reviews Lauren Baker’s solo show at M&C Saatchi, London

For those feeling jaded about the trend, there remain some artists capable of reinstating one’s passion for the medium. British multidisciplinary artist Lauren Baker is one such creator.  Aside from neon, Baker’s work include infinity mirrors, moving sculptures, sculpted animal heads, and decorated human and animal skulls.

A scene from the Golden Square HQ of M&C Saatchi during Lauren Baker’s
preview for her show Barely Controllable Emotion. Photograph: E Harper

Just as the candle many have held for the illuminated, sculptural words flicker, Lauren Baker’s solo show at M&C Saatchi, headquarters opened earlier this month. Featuring prints, which seemed to be selling rapidly on the spot, and her signature neon sculptures, the show is called  Barely Controllable Emotion and can be viewed at M&C Saatchi’s headquarters in Golden Square.

A steady throng of patrons visited the preview of the show (which can be seen until October 5th) in the office’s mezzanine and foyer. Despite the open air plan, the spacious venue was densely packed with revellers.

It would have been hard to overlook the presence of Pandemonia, the seven-foot tall conceptual artists and latex clad “art personality” who has become almost ubiquitous at must-see art and fashion events in the recent year or so.

Conceptual Artist Pandemonia paps back at the Lauren Baker Preview. Photograph: E Harper

The turn-out was testament to the popularity of Baker, who, at a relatively early stage in her career can boast myriad prestigious names in her commission history. She has had commissions from Tate Britain, Harrods, Browns, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and London Fashion Week (among others).

Lauren Baker’s latest piece, an homage to Nikola Tesla. Photograph: E Harper

Her exhibition was mostly comprised of neon walls mounted work, featuring risqué or unusual aphorisms spelled out in graphic letters. One such sculpture read Be Kind to Animals or I Will Kill You. This seemingly playful statement hints at Baker’s dedication to animal rights. Ten per cent of her sales of this piece went to the charity “Save the Tigers,” who she has raised £50, 000 for in separate initiatives.

Part of the success of her approach to the medium lies in her unique references. Her freshly unveiled piece “ Secrets of the Universe” was inspired by the inventor and engineer Nikolas Tesla and features text from one of his quotes: “If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency, and vibrations”.

by Yasmin Bilbeisi

All photographs: E Harper

Visit M&C Saatchi, 36 Golden Square, London, W1F 9EE between now and October 5 to be illuminated.