I’m always impressed with a public speaker that can speak eloquently without using notes and be lightly humorous at the same time. Ned Rifkin did that and much more during this keynote address to the Sculpture Parks and Gardens Conference attendees, which was also open to the public.
From Michelangelo's David to Rodin’s bronzes to contemporary computer generated figures - he examines the evolution of technology and the changing notion of what Sculpture is, was, and will be.
Starting with the dictionary definition of sculpture he goes on to show how sculpture is much more varied and interesting than could be contained by narrow interpretations of the field. His is comprehensive, covering a broad spectrum of the history of art as it pertains to definitions of Sculpture in all of its diverse manifestations.
He shows us a neon sign, a Joseph Kosuth piece, as a piece which signifies it’s intent through use of language, and to provoke us to some extent. Obviously, I found that an interesting choice as I do neon pieces from time to time. But then he is off to a whirlwind examination of the history of art as it relates to sculpture.
This keynote is really must see for anyone who seriously wants to understand the evolution of sculpture as it pertains to modern art world today.
It may take 30 seconds or so to start and lasts about an hour. I’m not sure how well it will work if you have a dial-up connection, but I hope you will be able to watch and listen to this - I promise you will find it worth your time.
Russ RuBert
Sculpture Community has thread about the Conference here:
