TALKING POINTS

ART TO ART

Russell Tovey, the actor, broadcaster and art enthusiast, shares the three exhibitions he will be visiting this month. His book, Talk Art: Everything You Wanted to Know About Contemporary Art But Were Afraid to Ask (£20, Ilex), written with the gallerist (and his podcast co-host) Robert Diament, is published on 13 May.

‘Jennifer Packer: The Eye is not Satisfied with Seeing’ at the Serpentine Gallery

‘The New York artist Jennifer Packer’s paintings are like nothing I’ve ever seen. Her work is autobiographical. It’s political and powerful, but also comes from a place of love and attention, care and tenderness – the soulfulness is captivating. You can’t help but be affected. Everyone

has to see this show.’

From 19 May (www. serpentinegalleries.org).

‘Tracey Emin/Edvard Munch’ at the Royal Academy

‘To see Tracey’s work in dialogue with her hero’s is very moving. Rob and I first met at the opening of her retrospective in Scotland 10 years ago; we were her two youngest collectors so she sat us next to each other at dinner. She’s so

proud of this exhibition, and rightly so – it’s a moment of, “Yes, I do deserve to be on the walls alongside Munch. My work is saying something

as important as his is.” That’s magic.’

From 18 May (www.royalacademy.org.uk).

‘Walter Price – Pearl Lines’ at Camden Art Centre

‘Walter enlisted with the US Navy in order to pay his way through art school. I think everyone’s going to be so inspired by this guy’s work. With art, it’s just about having images and ideas that you love around you; even if you can’t afford to collect, or to buy an edition or a poster, print it off the gallery website and stick

it on the fridge door. It will make a difference.’

From 21 May (www.camdenartcentre.org).