Ron Mueck Exhibition Opens at Gallery of Modern Art

BRISBANE.- The largest ever Australian exhibition of life-like sculptures by major contemporary artist Ron Mueck opens at the Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane, from tomorrow.

Queensland Art Gallery Director Tony Ellwood said the exhibition of 12 hyperrealistic sculptures, most of human figures, would be on display until August 1.

‘Queensland audiences will be captivated by Mueck’s moving and poignant sculptures drawn from Australian and international collections. Sometimes colossal, and at other times miniature, the works resonate with deep emotion,’ Mr Ellwood said.

‘Often naked and suspended in states of self-consciousness or deep contemplation, Mueck’s figures are overwhelmingly human.

Ron Mueck, "Mask II" 2001–02. Polyester resin, silicone, polyester monofilament, 77.0 x 118.0 x 85.0 cm. Collection Anthony d’Offay, London ©Ron Mueck. Courtesy Anthony d’Offay Ltd, London

‘The works on display include a five-metre long newborn baby, a tiny, aged woman near death and a compelling sculpture of the artist’s own face.’

Mr Ellwood said the exhibition included the iconic work Dead Dad 1996/97, which appeared in ‘Sensation’, the controversial 1997 survey of Young British Artists from the Saatchi collection.

‘Other works include Man in a boat 2002, a small-scale figure in a full-size canoe and the towering, hirsute Wild man 2005. Also appearing is In bed, the 2005 work from the Queensland Art Gallery’s Collection,’ he said.

‘Four new works by Mueck appear for the first time in this National Gallery of Victoria Touring Exhibition, curated by David Hurlston, Curator, Australian Art, NGV.’

Following its exhibition in Brisbane, ‘Ron Mueck’ will tour to Christchurch Art Gallery, New Zealand. A fully
illustrated colour catalogue is published in conjunction with the exhibition.

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