Presented in the contemplative space of the 18th century Chapel, 399 Days (2012–13) by Rachel Kneebone is the artist’s most ambitious project to date. Inspired by themes of transformation and renewal, it is named after the length of time it took her to make, is over five metres in height and comprises 63 exterior panels. 399 Days echoes historic monuments such as Trajan’s Column, a plaster cast of which is displayed in the Cast Court of the V&A, where 399 Days was also shown 2017–19. Monumental in scale yet exquisite in detail, 399 Days is a tour de force born of intense emotions, expressing movement and energy in a medium more commonly associated with stillness. The unique architecture of the Chapel allows for a view of the sculpture at height from the upper balcony, where drawings from Kneebone’s Exile series can be seen. The exhibition is completed by Roll (2017), placed in the tiny chapel vestry.

https://ysp.org.uk/exhibitions/rachel-kneebone-399-days

Image credit: Rachel Kneebone, 399 Days (detail) 2012–13, courtesy European Collection. Photo © Stephen White, courtesy White Cube.