A column of people comes, one by one, towards us to observe for themselves and be emotionally affected, absorbed by grief, horror and / or sadness, by a scene playing out below where we stand. We don’t know what it is but by their reactions we too come to be observers of their grief and thus for those immediately involved.

Observance is one of a series of works by Viola comprising The Passions created over three years from 2000 to 2002. His art generally explores themes of human experience, memory and the mystery of existence and he creates compelling, voiceless narratives where their effects are magnified through the slow motion of their movements and expressions.

As much as we too may become infected by the reactions, there is a voyeuristic disposition of these people that is also unsettling for they seem to neither know the players suffering nor, in most instances, those around them as they almost jostle for their chance to gain a clear view. The reassuring touches and anxious glances seem to be mostly towards those who are joined only by this experience. Interestingly, while people of all colours and ages are represented, Viola does not have children in the mix.

This is interesting art that poses questions about how we react when confronted with the grief of others, whether known to us or not, as well as how we can share in the reactions of others. Combined with the Mirror Mirror exhibition, Observance promises that a walk to the West End will again reward you for the effort.

Until 14th July.