Tarek Atoui, a renowned sound artist, has been selected for the esteemed Hyundai Commission at Tate Modern's Turbine Hall. This significant appointment highlights Atoui's innovative approach to sound art, which integrates technology, sculpture, and performance to explore social, historical, and political themes. His upcoming exhibition, scheduled from October 2026 to April 2027, promises to transform the iconic Turbine Hall into a unique auditory and sensory experience, reflecting his deep engagement with the spatial and vibrational aspects of sound.
Atoui's artistic practice is distinguished by his creation of complex, custom-built instruments that often involve collaborations with various artists and makers. These installations frequently utilize unconventional materials such as glass, water, and ceramics, brought to life through touch, breath, or mechanical motors. His extensive research into global music histories enriches his work, allowing him to craft immersive environments that challenge conventional perceptions of sound and art. The curatorial team from Tate Modern, Nabila Abdel Nabi and Dina Akhmadeeva, will oversee this ambitious project, aiming to deliver a groundbreaking exhibition that resonates with a diverse audience.
Tarek Atoui's Innovative Soundscapes at Tate Modern
Tarek Atoui, a distinguished artist from Beirut now based in Paris, is set to captivate audiences with his forthcoming Hyundai Commission at Tate Modern’s iconic Turbine Hall. His exhibition, opening on October 13 and continuing until April 2027, marks a significant moment in contemporary sound art. Atoui's work is characterized by its interdisciplinary nature, blending music, technology, sculpture, and performance. He is celebrated for creating elaborate installations that feature bespoke instruments, often developed in partnership with fellow artists, composers, and artisans. These unique instruments frequently integrate materials such as glass, water, and ceramics, and are activated through various methods, including human touch, breath, or mechanical motors, offering a multisensory experience to the viewer.
Atoui's artistic journey is deeply rooted in comprehensive research into diverse music histories from across the globe, allowing him to infuse his creations with rich cultural and historical narratives. This meticulous approach results in installations that are not only aesthetically compelling but also profoundly resonant. The selection of Atoui for this prestigious commission underscores his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist whose work dynamically engages with current social, historical, and political realities. His ability to explore the relationship between sound, vibration, and architectural space is central to his practice, making the vast and imposing Turbine Hall an ideal canvas for his innovative vision. Tate Modern's interim director, Catherine Wood, expressed great anticipation for how Atoui will engage with the public within this iconic space, promising an unforgettable experience that redefines the parameters of art.
The Legacy and Future of the Turbine Hall Commission
The Tate Modern's Turbine Hall has been a distinguished venue for large-scale art commissions since 2000, establishing a tradition of showcasing monumental and thought-provoking works. The Hyundai Commission, a pivotal series within this tradition, has been generously sponsored by Hyundai Motor Company since 2014, with their commitment recently extended until 2036. This long-standing partnership ensures the continued presentation of innovative art that pushes creative boundaries and engages with global audiences. The commission provides artists with an unparalleled platform to realize ambitious projects that often interact directly with the unique architectural grandeur of the Turbine Hall, transforming its industrial expanse into a vibrant artistic arena.
Throughout its history, the Hyundai Commission has featured a diverse array of internationally acclaimed artists, each leaving an indelible mark on the Turbine Hall. Past commissions have included notable works by Mire Lee (2024), El Anatsui (2023), Cecilia Vicuña (2022), Anicka Yi (2021), and Kara Walker (2019), with Máret Ánne Sara's 2025 commission currently on display. These artists have consistently delivered installations that are not only visually and conceptually striking but also deeply reflective of contemporary cultural and social dialogues. The selection of Tarek Atoui for the upcoming commission continues this legacy, promising an exhibition that will undoubtedly contribute to the Turbine Hall's storied history as a hub for cutting-edge contemporary art, challenging perceptions and fostering new dialogues through his unique exploration of sound and space.