Stephen Walter, Untitled (Subterranea), pencil drawing (map of South Kensington), 2008

Map of South Kensington

Given by Stephen Walter

Untitled (Subterranea) was commissioned from the artist by the Museum in 2008 when it formed part of a Friday Late event on 28th March 2008 called Subterranea. Prints were made from the drawing and distributed during the evening. The original drawing was subsequently presented to the museum by the artist.

Historical significance: Stephen Walter read for a degree in Fine Art at Manchester Metropolitan University and subsequently went on to do a Master's degree in Fine Art Printmaking at the Royal College of Art. Although he works in a range of media, in recent years he has focussed increasingly on drawing.

Much of Walter's recent work has developed through a fascination with maps and signs. He draws landscapes in which objects are taken over by their symbolic representations, creating forests of geographical map symbols and places where every inch is mapped and quantified for human purpose.

Untitled (Subterranea) is a highly individual map of South Kensington and the surrounding area with landmarks indicated. Although it is far from an accurate topographical representation, it reflects the commercial tourist maps which distort and simplify the street layout, magnifying certain buildings and excluding others. Specially commissioned from the artist for a 'Friday Late' event at the V&A, the drawing is related to an exhibition held at TAG Fine Art in London in February 2008, 'The Island: London series', which was devoted to Walter's maps of various parts of London.

Much of Stephen Walter's recent work has developed through a fascination with maps and signs. He draws landscapes in which objects are taken over by their symbolic representations, creating forests of geographical map symbols and places where every inch is mapped and quantified for human purpose.

Untitled (Subterranea) is a highly individual map of South Kensington and the surrounding area with landmarks indicated. Although it is far from an accurate topographical representation, it reflects the commercial tourist maps which distort and simplify the street layout, magnifying certain buildings and excluding others. Specially commissioned from the artist for a 'Friday Late' event at the V&A, the drawing is related to an exhibition held at TAG Fine Art in London in February 2008, 'The Island: London series', which was devoted to Walter's maps of various parts of London.

E.562-2008