I was briefly at Tate Modern last week so went to see Miroslaw Balka's installation in the Turbine Hall, "How It Is". It's the first time I've been to the Tate with wheels so it was an unusual experience. I'd heard about the secret parking round the back so I called with half an hour's notice expecting nothing. But I get put through to security who say that there's a space available, that they'd book it for me, that I should just buzz when I arrive. Perfect. The parking takes you to the staff entrance and after being guided through the maze to Tate itself, you're given a key that will bring you back. I wonder if I'm going to get lost: I'm told the return journey starts from another door and involves long corridors.
I say I'd like to go to see the installation. It's suggested that I catch "the car" since the entrance ramp is steep. Why not? I'm always keen on new experiences and as three staff crowded round, I thought this would certainly be different. One had never driven the vehicle before. Another was a manager. The third was the driver but was going to walk in front to make sure people got out the way. I was loaded on, strapped in then driven slowly through the gallery. I felt as if I was in the PopeMobile - headlights and beeps and stares.
However, beeps and headlights don't really fit with the aesthetic of Miroslaw Balka. The installation, an enormous container, is dark inside (though not pitch black, as I was expecting) - and the vehicle headlights sweeping across the interior don't seem in character. Nor do the warning beeps chime with the stated aim of silence. My ramp is lowered and after much clanking and removal of seat belts, I'm eased out to explore. I'm disappointed. Even without headlights, the container is surprisingly light and noisy. Not much of a chance to experience the sensation of darkness with a community of strangers.
I decide to leave without transport and ask for help to guide me down the very steep ramp. As I exit, another staff member is surprised that I was driven. He says I should have insisted I ask to be pushed up the slope. I'm not sure: I feel uneasy at the idea, but on reflection decide that it's just the same as asking any stranger for assistance.
I'm glad I've been inside How It Is (especially with the transport excitement) but unlike some of the other Turbine Hall installations - the Weather Project in particular - I won't be recommending that friends visit. But I will suggest that other wheelchair users have a go at freewheeling down the main entrance slope. It's fantastic!
