Delicate Flowers and Wings Flutter Across Gold Skeletons in Casey Curran’s Kinetic Sculptures

Art
Nature

#Casey Curran
#kinetic
#sculpture
#technology
#video

Delicate Flowers and Wings Flutter Across Gold Skeletons in Casey Curran’s Kinetic Sculptures

June 28, 2024

Grace Ebert

“Bee Keeper,” brass, Dura-Lar, and gold leaf, 33 x 24 x 27 inches. All images courtesy of Heron Arts, shared with permission

Suspended in the lofty gallery of Heron Arts is a series of new kinetic sculptures by Casey Curran (previously). The motorized works of brass, gold leaf, and organza draw on Greek mythology, particularly that of Icarus who met his demise after flying too close to the sun. With fluttering white wings, the largest sculpture hangs upside down as if falling to the wheat-laden ground.

The fully articulated skeleton is one of many figurative works in Writ Against The Sun, which considers the chasm between ambition and reality. Interested in the intersection of nature and technology, Curran is known for his dynamic sculptures that flit and writhe in mesmerizing motion. The Seattle-based artist continues in this vein for the exhibition, presenting several new kinetic works dangling from the ceiling, on the wall and pedestal, and even designed to fit around the human body.

A gilded skeletal system runs through many of the pieces, including “Bee Keeper,” which portrays a seated figure enveloped by dainty insects, and the framed “Archaeopteryx.” The latter features a spine and appendages enveloped by bell-shaped florets activated by a small hand-crank. Curran also shares three garments that wrap around the torso and shoulders, transforming the wearer with fantastic, creaturely movement.

Writ Against The Sun is on view through July 20 in San Francisco. Find more video from the exhibition on the artist’s Instagram.

Installation view of “Icarus,” brass, organza, gold leaf, Dura-Lar, steal, 60 x 48 x 48

“Archaeopteryx,” wood, brass, steal, Dura-Lar, canvas, gold leaf, organza, 26 x 34 x 8 inches

“Fluminis—Of the River,” wood, brass, Dura-Lar, canvas, 26 x 28 x 6 inches

Installation view of ‘Writ Against The Sun’

#Casey Curran
#kinetic
#sculpture
#technology
#video

Do stories and artists like this matter to you? Become a Colossal Member today and support independent arts publishing for as little as $5 per month. You’ll connect with a community of like-minded readers who are passionate about contemporary art, read articles and newsletters ad-free, sustain our interview series, get discounts and early access to our limited-edition print releases, and much more. Join now!