Duane Hanson

London

The Serpentine Sackler Gallery is currently presenting a Duane Hanson exhibition. The American pop artist is known for his disconcerting hyperrealist life-sized statues. Shaped on real human bodies, his sculptures are disturbingly human-like in their postures and activities. The glass fibre and resin used by Hanson shape the human body in its thinner details and peculiarities, giving an unbelievable authenticity to the works.

For the most, Hanson depicts everyday characters doing everyday activities in an everyday setting. ‘Tourists’, ‘Woman Eating’, ’Supermarket Woman’ or ‘Derelict Woman’ are the reflection of people who can be seen on a daily basis in the streets, at the supermarket or at the restaurant. Therefore, his oeuvre is a mirror of the American way of life, without embellishment nor embroidery. Just in its pure and simple state. Being an image of our surroundings and existence, Hanson’s sculptures convey a witty yet melancholic expression.

Along with his everyday pieces, Hanson engages politically with sculptures alluding to the murder of Martin Luther King or to the Vietnam War. This time leaving aside the humorous part to depict a crude reality and therefore society.

Serpentine Galleries

June 02 – September 13, 2015

West Carriage Drive
London W2 2AR
UK

Calendar