Untitled (spine)
-
Richard Reddaway
b.1962
Title
Untitled (spine)
Details
| Production Date | 1988 |
|---|---|
| Collection(s) | Collection Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, New Plymouth. Purchased from Monica Brewster Bequest with the assistance of the Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council of New Zealand in 1991. |
| Accession Number | 91/12 |
| Media | Shell on wood |
About
Richard Reddaway's sculptures of stacked, generic figures are based on Gothic and Romanesque sculptures. The sculpted figures in those old churches appear to cling to the architecture of the church, echoing the form of their prison. The architecture, with terms like 'spine' and 'ribs', appeared to echo parts of a human body. Reddaway's body-buildings suggest political, social and sexual relationships; they are little model societies.
The arrangement of the figures in 'Untitled (spine) is particularly suggestive. The upper group, with arms outstretched, suggest a spinal column or rib cage. They also suggest multiple crucifixion. Meanwhile the lower group forms a kind of staircase. The use of shell recalls modes of embellishment found in tribal art.
