Marnie Weber's First French Retrospective at Le Magasin
From February 7 through April 25, 2010, Le Magasin in Grenoble will showcase the inaugural French retrospective of Marnie Weber, a 1959-born American artist. Originating from the West Coast's punk scene, she is known for her group, The Spirit Girls, and creates fantastical environments populated by melancholic clowns and meaningful animals. Weber’s artwork is often inspired by her childhood experiences in Connecticut and limited film exposure, with her presence featured in many narratives. Notable short films from her catalog, produced between 1993 and 2009, include "The Spirit Girls: Songs That Never Die" and "The Sea of Silence."
Key facts
- First French retrospective of Marnie Weber at Le Magasin, Grenoble.
- Exhibition dates: February 7 to April 25, 2010.
- Weber is a former West Coast punk scene figure and frontwoman of The Spirit Girls.
- Her dreamlike world includes sad clowns, spirit mediums, and symbolic animals.
- She cites childhood in Connecticut and only three films seen as influences.
- Films from 1993 to 2009, mostly video, some Super 8 or 16mm, under 30 minutes.
- Jim Shaw assisted on some films, wearing animal masks.
- Key works: The Spirit Girls: Songs That Never Die (2005), The Spirit Girls: a Western Song (2007), The Sea of Silence (2009).
- Hybrid objects like animal trophy helmets on mannequin busts are highlights.
- Sculptures from 2008 include Tiger Lady, Hippo Girl, and The Clown Couple.
Entities
Artists
- Marnie Weber
- Jim Shaw
- Paul McCarthy
- Mike Kelley
- Cindy Sherman
Institutions
- Le Magasin
Locations
- Grenoble
- France
- Connecticut
- Los Angeles
Sources
- artpress —