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ALBERT PFARR: MAKING SPACE
January 5 - 26, 2008 |
To mark the onset of a new year, Clay Art Center is pleased to present Making Space, a solo exhibition featuring the large scale sculpture of Albert Pfarr. These monumental works, created with multiple interchangeable parts, will redefine the concept of making space and challenge our ideas of what clay is capable of doing. The exhibit will run from January 5 - 26, 2008 with an opening reception on Saturday, January 5 from 6-8pm. In the spirit of Albert Pfarr’s creative process, we will simultaneously present Parts and Pieces in the upstairs Henry’s Project space. This exhibition will feature 11 current Clay Art Center artists whose small scale works explore the concept of creating a whole with multiple pieces or parts.
 In his artist statement, Albert Pfarr states, “I employ systematic methodologies for the formal creation of my work with the intention of generating contemplative forms to address issues of meaning and permanence in the world. These modular pieces draw inspiration from patterns of construction in both nature and technology.
“Using peg-and-hole construction and hundreds of interchangeable parts, I create work as if I were piecing together a puzzle or creating a code. In a sense, I’ve created a game for myself and the viewer. I enjoy working within the limitations of this invented game—seeing what new pieces can be made each time I set up the work using a vocabulary of parts. The forms are constructed on rounded bases that enable them to rock back and forth when pushed. There is a subtle reference to the figure, and the simple shapes and colors have a childlike appeal. The large scale creates an undeniable presence in a gallery space, and the projecting shapes stand in contrast to straight, clean architectural lines. The goal, however, is not to make a final, perfected form, but rather to relinquish some control over the final image to spontaneous decisions. While the evidence of my hand is clearly present, I find it exciting to invite the viewer or gallery director to change and recombine the parts. By inviting the viewer to reassemble the pieces, I transfer the authority of creation and meaning-making to the viewer. This also connects the viewer to the construction method and to the sheer physicality of the work. By creating works that can be assembled and dissembled, I trade the preciousness of the formal object for the enjoyment and activity involved in creating.”
Parts & Pieces will feature sculptural works made of multiple parts by Patricia Akinyemi, Monique Brooks, Natalie Kase, Sarah Koster, Denis Licul, Michelle Martin, Leigh Taylor Mickelson, Doris Montagna, Mari Ogihara, Marilyn Richeda, and Florence Suerig.
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