When we were out at North Adams this past weekend, we checked out MASS MoCA. There is always something interesting happening at this museum.
Readers who have been out to MASS MoCA will be familiar with the inverted tree installation. The plantings have been suspended in that fashion long enough for the effects of phototropism to be clearly evident.
The installation is by Natalie Jeremijenko. This arboreal art work, called Tree Logic, was completed in 1999. Six live trees are permanently suspended upside down to challenge the viewer's preconception of what is natural.
MASS MoCA has sprung from the grounds of Sprague Electric Company. Sprague was a major research and development center back in its day. Its focus was on conducting studies on the nature of electricity and semi-conducting materials. Sprague's products were used in the launch systems for Gemini moon missions.
MASS MoCA was conceived as an institution for the display of contemporary visual arts. It has evolved into a center that presents and stimulates the synthesis of works that pushe the boundary of creativity. MASS MoCA, opened in 1999, is currently celebrating its 20th year of supporting artistic innovation and experimentation.
Many readers know about our interest in mind-mapping. Imagine our delight when we came face to face with this work at the This is Killing Me installation.
From the MASS MoCA info..."In contrast to the popular mythology of the studio as a site of inspired genius, these artists depict the studio as a space of always difficult labor, laced more with self-doubt than triumphant brilliance. Part and parcel of the pervasive uncertainties of economic distress, war, and environmental collapse that define our moment, the works in This is Killing Me reveal the specific anxieties of artists in these generally anxious times."
All we can say is...we loved it. The exhibit will be at MASS MoCA until April 15, 2010. We suggest that you make time and go see it. [Permalink] - MASS MoCA
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