The Observer, April 6, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 23
Third annual On a Pedestal and Off the Wall showcases regional artists' talents
Although it may not be obvious to most casual viewers, sculpture is actually one of the more diverse art mediums. Sculptors can make anything they choose from practically any material they choose, provided it is sturdy enough to stand up and be displayed. Any doubters will definitely have their minds changed after viewing On a Pedestal and Off the Wall, the current exhibit at the Sculpture Center, located at the corner of Euclid Avenue and East 123rd Street.
A smal exhibit, consisting of 27 pieces, this current show is a hodgepodge of a multitude of different regional artists, ranging from sculptures that definitely are conveying a message to those that are just pure fun. Materials used range from concrete and wire to feathers and goldfish carcasses, proving the above statement true many times over.
The show is juried by Don Harvey, a local artist who made very good choices on what to include in the exhibit. Some of the more striking pieces include Dietrich Wagner's "Bomber Boy," a silicone model of a young, blond boy wearing nothing but a diaper. Strapped to his chest are a few brilliantly red sticks of dynamite. The boy wears an expression of creepily accurate terror, sculpted to perfection by Wagner. The sculpture is a terrifying look into today's popular culture.
Another very impressive sculpture is Case Conover's "Match America," a cardboard map of the United States covered in nothing but red matchstick tips. The amount of time that was put into this piece can only be imagined, but the effect can be seen from across the room. A drastic statement about the artist's view on politics, "Match America" reigns as one of the most affecting pieces in the entire gallery.
Some of the other pieces that there just for fun are Lauren Kalman's "Gold Fish Swims," which includs, among its many materials, a fishbowl with a real goldfish carcass in it, suspended in oil. Greg Martin's "Eclipse Machine," a round sphere of cast concrete that is reminiscent of the Death Star, is also a standout selection, due to its crafting. An upper slab of the sphere is cut off, and it is also hollowed out and stuffed with tubes of very reedy-looking grasses. The overall result is that of a floating battleship-esque space station, ready to cause an eclipse by blowing out the sun.
On the whole, the Sculpture Center's On a Pedestal and Off the Wall is a very successful look into the minds and creativity of local sculptors. All the pieces are drastically different, but combine well for a cohesive, modern exhibit, proving sculpture's diversity to all who see it. This show is free admission and is currently open until April 14th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.
