Ryan Gander’s new show puts paintings alongside his challenge to art’s norms

Conceptual artist Ryan Gander has opened a new show at the Towner gallery in Eastbourne.

Called *Maybe: Ryan Gander*, it includes new paintings, even though Gander says drawing and painting seem futile to him.

The 50-year-old artist grew up with a severe brittle bone condition and spent much of his childhood in hospital beds, where he says his imagination could roam.

His work has taken many forms, including treasure hunts, vending machines and chess sets made from car parts.

Gander argues that art should be about the stories and feelings it creates, rather than the objects themselves.

He also questions why so much art is made to hang on a wall, saying artists should be able to work outside society’s norms.

The exhibition is now on view at Towner, though no closing date is given.