具体描述
RICHARD DEACON: SCULPTURE IN PRACTICE This volume offers an in-depth exploration of the artistic practice of Richard Deacon, a pivotal figure in contemporary sculpture. Beyond a mere retrospective, the book delves into the conceptual underpinnings and material investigations that have defined Deacon's prolific career. It examines his unique approach to form, space, and the very nature of sculpture, tracing a trajectory from his early explorations to his more recent monumental works. The book meticulously dissects Deacon's engagement with a diverse array of materials, from the organic and pliable like felt, rubber, and wood, to the industrial and resistant such as steel, aluminum, and plaster. It highlights how his choice of material is not merely aesthetic, but integral to the structural logic and expressive potential of each piece. Readers will gain insight into the artist's tactile engagement with these substances, the way he manipulates, folds, curves, and assembles them to create forms that are both familiar and profoundly strange. The interplay between the inherent properties of the materials and Deacon's deliberate interventions is a recurring theme, revealing a deep understanding of their physical and metaphorical implications. A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the conceptual frameworks that inform Deacon's work. It explores his interest in systems, networks, and the interconnectedness of elements. His sculptures often suggest internal mechanisms, processes, and flows, evoking a sense of organic growth or industrial engineering. The book investigates how Deacon draws inspiration from diverse fields, including architecture, biology, and even music, translating complex ideas into tangible sculptural forms. The notion of the "unfolding" or "revealing" is central to his process, with many works appearing to develop or transform before the viewer's eyes, challenging conventional perceptions of static objects. The spatial dimensions of Deacon's sculptures are also a key focus. His works often interact with their environment, engaging in a dialogue with the surrounding architecture and the viewer's presence. The book analyzes how Deacon manipulates scale, volume, and negative space to create dynamic and immersive experiences. Whether monumental installations that dominate a gallery space or more intimate objects, his sculptures possess a compelling spatial intelligence, inviting viewers to circumnavigate and discover new perspectives. The relationship between the internal structure of the work and its external presence is consistently explored, underscoring the artist's mastery of creating sculptures that are both self-contained and contextually aware. This publication features extensive documentation of Deacon's significant projects, offering detailed photographic evidence alongside critical essays. These essays, penned by leading art historians and critics, provide nuanced interpretations of his oeuvre, situating his work within the broader landscape of contemporary art history. They examine the evolution of his aesthetic language, his contributions to the discourse on materiality and form, and the lasting impact of his sculptural innovations. The book also includes interviews with the artist, offering rare insights into his creative process, his motivations, and his reflections on the challenges and joys of making sculpture. RICHARD DEACON: SCULPTURE IN PRACTICE aims to provide a comprehensive and accessible understanding of an artist whose work continues to challenge and inspire. It is an essential resource for anyone interested in the enduring power of sculpture and the innovative spirit of one of its most compelling practitioners. The book is not just an archive of works, but an invitation to engage with the very essence of what it means to conceive and create sculpture in the modern era. It celebrates the physicality of the art form while simultaneously engaging with its intellectual and philosophical dimensions, offering a rich and rewarding journey through the mind and practice of Richard Deacon.