Berlinde De Bruyckere

29 Sep 2018-1 Jan 2019

Overview

Hauser & Wirth Somerset is proud to present its first solo exhibition by Berlinde De Bruyckere. Occupying the Rhoades and Bourgeois galleries, De Bruyckere will present two new bodies of work. The Belgian sculptor embraces a greater level of abstraction, while continuing to deploy her familiar sensitivity for materials. In the first body, wall-mounted works are composed of heavily weathered, semi-decomposed blankets built up in layers, suggesting warmth and protection, but also the vulnerable experiences that lead one to seek shelter. The second, floor-based sculptures, initially resemble piles of blankets, but on closer inspection are revealed to be stacked animal skins. Cast in grey wax, these powerful, organic works combine weight and delicacy to mesmerising effect. Both bodies of work continue to explore the theme of mortality that De Bruyckere has revisited throughout her career.