Paul McCarthy. Propo

all images: © PAUL MCCARTHY 
Courtesy the artist and Hauser & Wirth

A few weeks ago, American artist PAUL MCCARTHY inaugurated the Zurich season opening at Hauser & Wirth with Propo, a series of over 60 large photographs depicting everyday objects, dirtied, ruined and photographed against colourful backdrops that contrast with the mysterious nature of the decontextualized objects.

Between 1972 – 1983, I did a series of performances which involved masks, bottles, pans, uniforms, dolls, stuffed animals, etc. After the performances these objects were either left behind or they were collected and stored in suitcases and trunks to be used in future performances. In 1983, the closed suitcases and trunks containing these performance objects were stacked on a table and exhibited as sculpture. In 1991, I opened the suitcases and trunks photographing each item. The group of photographs in their entirety was titled PROPO.– PAUL MCCARTHY

Born in Utah, USA, in 1945, PAUL MCCARTHY is best known for his work with video, sculpture, provocative multimedia installation and his wild performances in the late Sixties. With irreverent wit, MCCARTHY investigates basic but difficult concepts such as society, relationships, sex and pop culture.

Good news: Propo is currently on view at Hauser & Wirth Zürich until October 20, 2012



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