The word “ark” often brings to mind the legendary vessel filled with animal pairs, sailing through a biblical deluge. Featuring numerous animal representations, it’s a fitting metaphor in light of the climate crisis and the looming threat of rising sea levels. At Powerhouse Arts, the exhibition “The Ark” poses a provocative question: Can we nurture our planet’s future with the same care we extend to animals?
This immersive exhibition taps into the Genesis myth of The Deluge, offering a grand metaphor for today’s intertwined environmental and social challenges. Set in a spacious, circular format, the sculptures serve as both protagonists and conduits for dialogue.
Exploring a Multitude of Animal Sculptures
Visitors might recognize the artistry of Kiki Smith, Nichola Theakston, Anthony Theakston, Wangechi Mutu, and Jeffrey Gibson, among others. The show assembles an impressive array of wildlife-inspired works by more than 50 artists, utilizing diverse materials like wood, stone, bronze, and resin. Notably, Maurizio Cattelan’s pigeons roost atop beams while Nichola and Anthony Theakston’s bronzes capture the essence of animal sanctity. Meanwhile, John O’Reilly’s poignant sculpture of an emaciated dog over her pup stirs deep emotion. The exhibit spans a spectrum of feelings including joy, wonder, humor, trepidation, and sorrow.
Explore the connection between art and nature further in ‘2018 Wildlife Photographer of the Year’ exhibition, which beautifully captures wildlife in their natural habitats.
Curator Eric Fischl originally showcased this collection at The Church in Sag Harbor, an area with a rich whaling history. Now located in Brooklyn, “The Ark” finds its home in Powerhouse Arts’ former warehouse along the Gowanus Canal. The venue, known as the “Batcave,” lies adjacent to a Superfund site, reflecting stark industrial echoes in a narrative of natural and material exploration.
In this evocative setting, visitors navigate a landscape replete with artistic representations of fauna, provoking surprise and admiration. As Powerhouse Arts describes, the focus shifts from themes of crisis to fostering intimate connections and relationships with the natural world.
To see more wildlife-themed art, discover Bruno Pontiroli’s expressive animal paintings that showcase creativity through acrobatic portrayals.
“The Ark” remains open in Brooklyn until August 30. Additional insights can be found on the organization’s Instagram.
Source: thisiscolossal.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the theme of the ‘The Ark’ exhibition?
The exhibition ‘The Ark’ uses the Genesis myth of The Deluge as a grand metaphor for today’s intertwined environmental and social challenges, focusing on nurturing our planet’s future with care similar to that extended to animals.
Which notable artists are featured in ‘The Ark’?
Notable artists featured in ‘The Ark’ include Kiki Smith, Nichola Theakston, Anthony Theakston, Wangechi Mutu, and Jeffrey Gibson, among others.
Until when is ‘The Ark’ exhibition open?
‘The Ark’ exhibition remains open in Brooklyn until August 30.