To Be Alert Is To Be Decorative

Ten til Ten’s inaugural show on the first floor of a Tradeston commercial building is a positive start for an undeniably exciting new space and curatorial voice in this developing area of Glasgow’s south side. The space itself is an unusual one, shying away from the white walls art stereotype and going for a warts and all rough-edged approach which reflects the grassroots nature of the venture. Paint-splattered walls and floor, low hanging fluorescent lighting, random pieces of graffiti - it all adds up to a gallery which provides space and potential, whilst maintaining a guerrilla edge. Although the show itself is also of the rough-and-ready variety, presenting works which are intriguing rather than overwhelming, it provides an introduction to some interesting practices. Special mention must go to Alhena Katsof’s untitled triptych of framed images, one of a porcelain ape, a second of the artist mimicking the pose of the porcelain ape, a third of the artist in mimicry pose with a cut-out paper rose over her face. Sean Edwards’ slide projection of a formally manipulated plastic bag lends a technicolour splash to the foot of a wall, an unusual choice of situation reflecting the many pleasantly surprising choices made in decisions of display throughout the exhibition. With a unique space, an interesting programme, and this exhibition set to travel to Paris with British Council backing, the curatorial team of Rocca Gutteridge and Lindsey Hanlon is surely a force to be reckoned with. [Rosamund West]