Charles Ray's dual Paris exhibitions showcase sculptural puzzles and oddball charm

Two concurrent exhibitions in Paris present a career overview of American sculptor Charles Ray, born in 1953 in Chicago. At the Centre Pompidou, works like Plank Piece (1973) reveal his playful approach, contrasting with Bruce Nauman's more alienating performance art. Ray's wall texts add humor, such as his commentary on Fall '91 series (1992) and Shoe Tie (2012). Yes (1990) features a curved photograph from an LSD experience, while No (1992) plays with perception using a sculptural mannequin. The Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection displays recent works, including Horse and Rider (2014) with a self-portrait on a plinth and Burger (2020), a scaled-up figure eating a cheeseburger. Return to the One (2020), made from paper, is described by Ray as a drawing rather than a sculpture. The exhibitions run through June 20 at the Pompidou and June 6 at the Bourse. Ray's work has been associated with 1980s New York artists and was featured in Jeffrey Deitch's 1992 Post Human show alongside Paul McCarthy, Matthew Barney, Robert Gober, and Cindy Sherman. Critics note his warmth and willingness to engage viewers, though some find his charm overwhelming compared to contemporaries.