Activating Space: Sculpture as Environment

Activating Space: Sculpture as Environment showcases a series of new installations in which contemporary sculptors create innovative ways for viewers to experience their work.

Contemporary artists often defy the traditional “object on pedestal” presentation, choosing instead to create environments that enliven or activate a defined space. Activating Space: Sculpture as Environment showcases a series of new installations in which contemporary sculptors create innovative ways for viewers to experience their work. The spatial relationship of a series of individual objects arranged within a contained area offers an exciting exchange between the viewer and the work of art. In Michael Murrell’s installation, giant carved wooden cones inspired by datura plants are suspended from the ceiling. These hollow forms dangle above mounds of soil the artist has collected from around the country. The colored earth in rich blacks and orange-reds are in dramatic contrast to the bleached surfaces of pale spruce forms. The work speaks to how humans have utilized soil for existence and to issues of soil conservation and the depletion of natural resources The scale of Murrell’s sculpted forms arranged in the space creates an invigorating experience for the viewer that is further enhanced by the artist’s thoughtful commentary on environmental issues. Technology is harnessed in Joe Martin and Jeffry Loy’s interactive kinetic wall installation in which black and white monitors trace the movements of visitors in the space. The motorized structure is humorous in one respect and yet evokes the feeling that “big brother is watching you” as the monitors transition from a frenzy of random movements to lock in on the viewer when they approach the structure. The exhibition also features works by Tori Arpad, Tim Curtis, David Geiser, George Long, and Andy Schuessler, among others.

Pressetext

Activating Space: Sculpture as Environment

mit Tori Arpad, Tim Curtis, David Geiser, George Long, Andy Schuessler, u.a.