Categories: Antoinette Williams, THE BUZZ Tags: , , , ,

THE BUZZ: Richard Deacon’s ever-expanding cache of mediums

Richard Deacon’s ever-expanding cache of mediums

By Antoinette Williams

“What You See is What You Get” showcases some of Deacon’s finest works for the first time in the US, and it should be at the top of every arty San Diego resident’s list. With a rough estimate of about 40 artworks on display now through July, this exhibition offers something for everyone. From screen prints to manipulated metal, this show presents viewers with a wide array of Deacon’s oeuvre. 

An iconic contemporary British sculptor, Richard Deacon gained international notoriety after winning the acclaimed Turner Prize in 1987. Often associated with his emphasis on the construction of the objects he creates, Deacon chooses to focus his creativity on the process and materials or rather how the two are interrelated, allowing the mediums to highlight the reactive nature of his creative style.

“Changing materials from one work to the next is a way of beginning again each time (and thus of finishing what had gone before)”. -Quote from an interview, Richard Deacon

Situated at the forefront of the “Lisson Gallery explosion”, his career was sensationalized early-on, which further allowed Deacon the ability to explore an ever-expanding cache of mediums. The experimentation has paid off, as the body of work presented in this exhibition is astonishing and worthy of admiration.

I found his life-size ceramics extraordinary. To be honest, my heartbeat quickened upon entering their crisp, clean domain. Juxtaposing larger-than-life sculptures with minute works, the subtly of the presentation should not be lost on viewers, since it allows each piece its own space for digestion, contemplation, and stupefaction. If there is one show that you must attend this Spring/Summer, make sure it is, “What You See is What You Get” at the San Diego Museum of Fine Art.

Richard Deacon: “What You See is What You Get”

Exhibition Dates: 25 March 2017- 25 July 2017

San Diego Museum of Fine Art. Balboa Park

Address: Balboa Park, 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102

(IMAGE: Richard Deacon, Dancing in Front of My Eyes, 2006. Wood, aluminum. Private Collection. Photograph by Jeff McClane. Courtesy of San Diego Museum of Art)

Vanguard Culture

Vanguard Culture is an online media entity designed for culturally savvy, socially conscious individuals. We provide original interviews and reviews of the people, places, and events that make up San Diego’s thriving arts and culture community, as well as curated snapshots of the week’s best, most inspiring and unique cultural and culinary events. We believe in making a difference in the world, supporting San Diego’s vibrant visual and performing arts community and bringing awareness to important social and community causes.