The Burton Art Gallery's recent Richard Long exhibition was on tour from the Tate Modern as part of their ARTIST ROOMS project.
Richard Long is an English sculptor, 'painter' and photographer who is best known for his land art. He is one of the most influential sculptors of the 20th century and is said to be the most admired British sculptor since Henry Moore. Richard Long works in nature by altering the landscape and also creates sculpture by bringing natural objects into the gallery or studio space and installing them in a uniformed manner. His work is often confrontational and challenges the viewer in relation to the philosophies of art and the landscape we live in.
Having worked closely with environmental artists lately; I have grown very fond of the Land Art movement and, as a result, Richard Long. His work forces people with a lesser understanding of conceptual art to reevaluate their idea of what makes something good. I find the colours and the stillness of the work quite therapeutic. Over the last six months I have gone from knowing of the existence of a rather worn out Spiral Jetty (which, I admit, I could have attributed to the Land Art movement even then) to truly liking the movement and genuinely seeking to learn more about it. In that respect, I have this exhibition to thank as it truly was a beautiful introduction to the subject.
EXHIBITION RESPONSES:
What do you think Richard Long’s work is about?
"Human connection with nature. Capturing the natural beauty, adjusting it and bringing it into ones home"
"Recognising the environment."
"Nature’s materials and our impact on them."
"Responding to and interacting with the landscape through sculpture, poetry, mark making and whats left in the wilderness."
"Appreciating the environment."
"Mankind’s effect on the landscape."
