Anish Kapoor at Hayward Gallery: a divine bloodbath of guts and illusion

Anish Kapoor's new show at the Hayward Gallery is a grandiose and provocative exploration of religion, sacrifice, and mortality. The exhibition features three paintings covered in transparent PVC, resembling surgical skin and containing three-dimensional purple and crimson entrails. Kapoor also uses Vantablack, the light-absorbing nanomaterial, to create optical illusions where objects vanish against black backgrounds. A centerpiece is a massive upside-down mountain hanging from the ceiling, representing Mount Moriah where God commanded Abraham to sacrifice his son. Painted in thick red and black, it drips what appears to be blood or lava. Other works include a red PVC inflatable blocking a mezzanine, and "Ha Makom" – a colossal landscape with a dark portal symbolizing God. The finale features giant metal trays heaped with blood-soaked bodies and body parts, reminiscent of Aztec sacrifice, yet surrounded by golden paintings suggesting peace. Kapoor's work is emotionally intense, provoking fear, disgust, and awe, and pushes viewers to question the boundaries of art.