According to the writer Michael Bracewell, Jack Freak Pictures comprise the single largest group of pictures that Gilbert & George have ever made. It is a monumental presentation of art, at once thematically episodic, confluent in motif and temper, and densely layered with emotional meaning. One pictorial element, however, the red, white and blue design of the Union Jack flag (itself an abstract, geometric pattern) appears to dominate this vivid and disquieting group. Strident, even jocular, this internationally recognized symbol, in all its connotations, from national pride and pageantry to Pop-cultural cool and civic disobedience, transmits its resonance across myriad social and cultural frequencies. Its historic and symbolic presence serves as both heart and spine of the Jack Freak Pictures, at once declamatory, iconic, multi-layered and irrefutable.

Gilbert & George, FRIGIDARIUM, 2008 Gilbert & George

The exhibition is organised in cooperation with British Council. Gilbert & George themselves have selected the pictures to be presented, designed the exhibition and are responsible for its merit concept. Jack Freak Pictures presentation in Gdansk will consist of 39 pictures and will take up the whole exhibition space of CCA Laznia.

Gilbert & George, HOMEY, 2008 Gilbert & George

3D presentation of Laznia CCA' exhibition

Honorary Patrons of the Project:
Polish Presidency of the European Union Council
Minister of Culture and National Heritage of the Republic of Poland, Bogdan Zdrojewski
Marshal of Pomeranian Voivodeship, Mieczysław Struk
Mayor of the City of Gdansk, Paweł Adamowicz

Project supported by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage of the Republic of Poland