Mark Dion
dal 20/11/2002 al 4/1/2003
Segnalato da
20/11/2002
Mark Dion
Tanya Bonakdar Gallery, New York
Mark Dion's interests in the spectacular presentation of nature and ecological systems are specifically explored in this major installation. In the main gallery space, set beneath the peaked glass skylight, the visitor is confronted with a tremendous greenhouse that has been constructed in the space.
Vivarium
Tanya Bonakdar Gallery is pleased to present its second major solo exhibition by
Mark Dion entitled, 'Vivarium.'
Mark Dion's interests in the spectacular presentation of nature and ecological
systems are specifically explored in this major installation. In the main
gallery space, set beneath the peaked glass skylight, the visitor is confronted
with a tremendous greenhouse that has been constructed in the space. The
structure provides an environment for a large decomposing tree that was found
(already fallen) in nearby region of Connecticut. Removed from its natural
context, the surroundings had already gained a foothold on the tree carcass in
the form of moss and other ground vegetation. As the glass structure cultivates
the continued growth of this vegetation and myriad microorganisms, it
simultaneously provides visual access to the slow process of decomposition and
transmutation. But in addition to its function as vitrine and growth medium,
the structure can also give the impression of a glass casket, with the
exhibition as metaphorical viewing of the deceased. In another detail, images
of the decomposer microorganisms, insects and fungi have been printed on tiles
that decorate the base of the greenhouse structure and construct a mosaic around
the periphery of the structure.
"Vivarium" continues Mark Dion’s investigation into the construction,
interpretation and presentation of nature and science. Often employing irony,
humor and an improvisational style, his installation work confronts and
emphasizes the inherent contradictions between the nature of an artifact and the
context in which it is displayed for popular consumption. Most recently, Dion
has been exploring the methods of collection and presentation of material
artifacts in a series of pseudo-archeological digs. These projects include an
exhibition for the Tate Gallery that involve the drudging of the Thames River in
London, as well as a dig in three urban areas of New England. In both projects,
materials were gathered, sorted, cleaned and presented in cabinets and treasure
chests, juxtaposed with photo-documentation of the gathering process.
Mark Dion's current and upcoming exhibition schedule includes 'Urban Wildlife
Observation Unit,' Public Art Fund, New York; 'Museotopia,' Karl Ernst Osthaus
Museum Der Stadt Hagen, Germany; 'Encyclomania,' Villa Markel, Esslingen and
Kunstverein Hannover, Germany; 'Microsmographia,' University of Tokyo Museum,
Tokyo; 'Full House,' The Aldrich Museum of Contemporary Art, Ridgefield, CT; and
'Collaborations 1987-2003,' Joseloff Gallery, Hartford, CT.
Opening reception, 6-8pm, November 21, 2002
Tanya Bonakdar Gallery
521 West 21st Street
New York, NY 10011
tel. 212 414 4144
fax 212 414 1535