Sol Le Witt (1928-2007) was an influential figure during the 1960’s. His drawings were not confined to the general techniques of that time, instead he invented his own visual creations. Rather than forcing his audience to read a particular narrative from his work, Sol LeWitt’s drawings allowed an array of suggestive interpretations.
The Art Gallery of NSW was proud to open this exciting exhibition yesterday. Sol LeWitt: Your mind is exactly at that line showcases 40 years of LeWitt’s intriguing practice. There is plenty on display to keep you enchanted. The show includes four new wall paintings with some shown in Australia for the first time. Also on display is a ‘concrete structure’, a selection of works on paper and engaging archival material. These impressive pieces allow the viewer to peer into some of the most significant developments within LeWitt’s art practice.
A fascinating element behind LeWitt’s artworks is that he would request a selection of people to draw them on behalf of him. He would give very concise instructions so that the execution would be performed accurately and successfully. This technique would place emphasis on the idea and meaning behind each drawing instead of focusing on the hand that brought it to reality. The idea and concept was the most important element in everything that was produced.
Throughout LeWitt’s life, he was known for his generosity and the support that he gave to a long list of artists. He acquired a lavish art collection including 20 indigenous Australian artworks that were gifts from the Australian philanthropist John Kaldor. For the first time in Australia, LeWitt is placed next to the works of Indigenous artists Emily Kam Ngwarray and Gloria Tamerre Petyarre, each had an imperative influence on his practice. Samples of correspondence are also included which demonstrate the deep admiration that LeWitt shared for Ngwarray’s work, in particularly her use of line. The works by Ngwarray and Petyarre were sourced from LeWitt’s personal collection.
The John Kaldor Family Collection, is now part of the Art Gallery of New South Wales collection and acts as a fundamental basis for the show. Significant works are also on display from the Naomi Milgrom Collection in Melbourne and the LeWitt collection in Carver, Connecticut, USA.
Sol LeWitt: Your mind is exactly at that line is on view until the 3rd of August and is free for all to see. This show is a celebration of the artist’s life and gives a fantastic insight into the factors that contributed to his abstract art making process. His journey is perfectly recorded at The Art Gallery of NSW. A greater appreciation for the skill involved can be experienced when the work is observed up close on an intimate level.
Art Gallery of New South Wales
20 February to 3 August
Sydney
Sol LeWitt, Wall drawing #1091 arcs, circles and bands (room), 2003, painted room on 4 walls
© Estate of Sol LeWitt, ARS, licensed by Viscopy
