THE WORLD OF GAZZA!!
‘The World of Gazza!!’ is an intense exploration of the life and times of Paul Gascoigne, one of England’s most legendary footballing icons.
The exhibition takes inspiration from Jeremy Deller’s 1990s series of posters for imaginary art exhibitions on subjects ranging from David Bowie to the poetry of Shaun Ryder. Among the works was ‘The World of Gazza!!’, a fake show about the mercurial footballer. When OOF discovered the poster, we approached Jeremy and asked if we could make the show a reality. This is the result: a combination of art, memorabilia, ephemera and archive material, creating a visceral portrait of a complex man.
This is an attempt to treat Paul Gascoigne not just as a footballer but as a serious cultural figure; one whose story has affected millions and filled more column inches than pretty much any other English footballer.
Gazza’s tale is one of glory, pain, sadness and terrible decisions. This exhibition explores his past triumphs and his repeated falls from grace, without shying away from the darker sides of his character.
‘The World of Gazza!!’ features existing work, new commissions and personal artefacts by artists and designers including Jeremy Deller, Douglas Gordon, Lydia Blakeley, Glen Pudvine, Beatrice Lettice Boyle, Rosie McGinn, Corbin Shaw, Trackie McLeod, A Store Like 94, Robert McNally, Winnie Hall, Robin Broadley, Emmely Elgersma, Andrew Pierre Hart and Marcus Wood. Also on display are match-worn shirts from throughout Gazza’s career, alongside material from the Tottenham Hotspur archive, classic film footage and a genuinely staggering amount of ’90s tat.
Show runs 21 April to 17 September.
Entry is free, access is via The Tottenham Experience (Spurs Shop), open Thu-Sat 10-5, Sun 11-4, Mon 10-5, closed Tue & Wed.
PRESS