Geometric, irregular rectilinear shapes of glazed ceramic leaning against one another in frozen equilibrium in intense hues of beer bottle green, black, fiery red, and blue turquoise compose the main vocabulary of British abstract sculptor and former Turner Prize winner Richard Deacon's new exhibition 'Association.'
© Richard Deacon, Congregate, 2011, Stainless steel, 257 x 329 x 660 cm.
In the 'Republic' series, each ceramic sculpture is unique in color and configuration. One reflects on the structural element as a whole, the relationships between individual pieces and the fragile nature of the overall form -- perhaps an echo of what the title of collective works stands for.
In the gallery's main courtyard, a large stainless steel sculpture forming a complex polygonal skeleton stands more tha three meters high and six meters wide, inviting the visitor to navigate around the form on a scale larger than life. The joining of multiple two-dimensional shapes create a seamless, mathematical unit, almost fluid despite its hard, steel make-up. Such contrasts are investigated throughout the exhibition.
Deacon gives new meaning to the phrase, "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts." Be it through steel, aluminum, or ceramic, unforgiving material is explored in challenging compositions achieving balance and harmony in a seemingly de-constructable entity.
Richard Deacon: Association at Lisson Gallery, 29 Bell Street, London NW1 5DA (020 7724 2739), runs until June 23.