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The language of neon lights up York church

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Bruce Nauman's work in neon is a feature of the York St Mary's exhibition. Photographs: York Museums Trust
Bruce Nauman’s work in neon is a feature of the York St Mary’s exhibition. Photographs: York Museums Trust

From neon to video, the artworks in the new exhibition at York St Mary’s share artist Bruce Nauman’s fascination with language.

Works in neon, video, metal and stone are included, such as the neon work Violins Violence Silence (1981-2), a sculpture in bronze, silver solder and copper, Untitled (Hand Circle) (1996), and the video Good Boy Bad Boy (1985).

“Nauman’s diverse art and groundbreaking works have made him one of the most highly respected and influential figures in contemporary art, particularly noted for his video and performance works,” said Jennifer Alexander, assistant curator of fine art at York Museums Trust.

Violins Violence Silence by Bruce Nauman, at York St Mary's
Violins Violence Silence by Bruce Nauman, at York St Mary’s

Nauman, who lives in New Mexico, USA rose to prominence in the 1960s working across a broad spectrum of different media including sculpture, photography and performance.

His work has been exhibited all over the world, and he produced a sound installation piece entitled Raw Materials for the 2004 Unilever Turbine Hall commission at Tate Modern in London.

The works on display in York are taken from ARTIST ROOMS, a collection of modern and contemporary art acquired for the nation by Tate and The National Galleries of Scotland.

 

  • Bruce Nauman at York St Mary’s runs from July 26 to November 10, 2013 at York St Mary’s, Castlegate. Open daily, from 10am to 5pm