Adam Dant – The Secret History of Somerset House

Courtesy of Tag Fine Arts

Entering the courtyard of Somerset House is an exercise in time travel. Apart from the TV arial and stray paper coffee cup, the modern world melts away in the confines of this former Royal Palace, Naval Office and inland revenue HQ. This new limited edition print is titled ‘The Secret History of Somerset House’, and provides a novel vision of one of Londoners’ favourite ‘contemplative spaces’, weaving together images of architectural splendour with glimpses of arcane history and contemporary quotidian public life, exposition and endeavour.

London-based artist Adam Dant creates intricate map prints that form observant imaginings of city life. His figurative style dives into the many scenes that make up a city, from comical happenings and historical features, to political commentaries. Each of Adam’s pieces are formed of pen and ink drawings, allowing him to compose wonderfully detailed scenes and narratives. Adam’s wry tone and perceptive approach has led to him being hailed as the modern day William Hogarth.