Günther Uecker's Early Works Challenge Perception at L & M Arts Exhibition
From March 9 to April 16, 2011, L & M Arts in New York City hosted an exhibition featuring Günther Uecker, highlighting his unique artistic approach with nails and light. As a co-founder of the Zero Group alongside Otto Piene and Heinz Mack, Uecker's art invites audience engagement. His 1963 work, Chair II, serves as a commentary on consumerism, while also addressing the moral intricacies of Germany's post-war silence regarding the Holocaust, paralleling the themes of Anselm Kiefer. Notable kinetic pieces include Sand Mill (1970), which illustrates cycles of destruction and rebirth, and Five Light Disks, Cosmic Vision (1961-1981), measuring over 23 feet and requiring movement for full appreciation. Additional works featured are New York Dancer I (1965) and White Bird (1964). The exhibition sought to elevate Uecker's profile in New York.
Key facts
- Exhibition dates: March 9 – April 16, 2011
- Venue: L & M Arts at 45 East 78th Street, New York City
- Günther Uecker was a founding member of the Zero Group with Otto Piene and Heinz Mack
- Chair II (1963) features nails that make the chair unusable
- Sand Mill (1970) is a 10-foot round kinetic earthwork using an electric motor
- Five Light Disks, Cosmic Vision (1961-1981) spans over 23 feet with rotating disks
- New York Dancer I (1965) rotates when a foot pedal is pressed
- Exhibition included loans from museums and private collections
Entities
Artists
- Günther Uecker
- Otto Piene
- Heinz Mack
- Anselm Kiefer
- Eva Hesse
- Tara Donovan
- Mona Hatoum
- Matisse
- Hans Obrist
- J.J. Gibson
Institutions
- L & M Arts
- Zero Group
- PACE
- MOMA
Locations
- New York City
- United States
- Germany