Cupid’s dazzling arrival, Bridget Riley’s rollercoaster and a duel of two masters – the week in art

Tony Cragg, a Turner Prize-winning sculptor, reflects on his artistic journey and experiences in the art world. Although he resides in Germany, he enjoys returning to Britain for its culture and humor. Cragg expresses mixed feelings about modern art audiences, particularly their tendency to prioritize selfies over engaging with the artwork, yet he remains welcoming to visitors in galleries.

Netflix has released an official trailer for the documentary 'Cover-Up', directed by Laura Poitras and Mark Obenhaus, which pays tribute to investigative journalist Seymour Hersh. The film showcases Hersh's fearless reporting and his role in exposing significant political cover-ups in the United States. It premiered at several prestigious film festivals, including Venice and Telluride, and highlights Hersh's dedication to uncovering the truth.

Harry Lighton's film 'Pillion' and Lynne Ramsay's 'Die My Love' were recognized as winners in the craft categories at the British Independent Film Awards (BIFA). The winners were announced in London ahead of the official BIFA ceremony scheduled for next month. Seamus McGarvey, a two-time BIFA nominee, was awarded Best.

The exhibition 'Bridget Riley: Learning to See' at Turner Contemporary in Margate showcases 26 works by the artist, spanning from the 1960s to the present. The display features a mix of large canvases, studies, and wall paintings that captivate viewers with their mastery of color and space. The experience encourages deep observation, revealing more with prolonged engagement.

The exhibition 'Ooo La La' at Sadie Coles HQ and Frankie Rossi Art Projects in London features the works of artists Maggi Hambling and Sarah Lucas. The show contrasts Lucas's witty sculptures with Hambling's semi-abstract paintings. Lucas, a prominent figure of the Young British Artists, pays homage to Hambling with a cigarette-based portrait, while Hambling's contributions are described as chaotic. The review reflects a negative sentiment towards the overall presentation.

Musician Joy Crookes has expressed concerns about the rise of far-right politics in the UK and Ireland, describing the current climate as a 'dark time.' Following her sold-out performances at the O2 Academy in Brixton, Crookes highlighted the influence of nationalism and recent far-right marches in London, which have made her feel unsafe in her home country. She drew parallels to the 1970s when the National Front was at its peak.

Ride the Cyclone, a musical by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell, is currently being staged at Southwark Playhouse Elephant in London. The story follows six high-school choristers who, after a rollercoaster accident, find themselves in limbo, competing for a second chance at life. The production, directed by Lizzi Gee, blends eccentricity with a celebration of life amidst its dark themes.

Paul Thomas Anderson and Leonardo DiCaprio participated in a Q&A session at London's BFI Southbank, discussing their film 'One Battle After Another.' The event attracted a large audience, where the duo addressed various questions, balancing industry expectations with public interest. Their conversation highlighted the film's significance in the current awards season.