William Corwin's Lenten Installation at Judson Memorial Church Blends Archaeology and Queer Avant-Garde
William Corwin showcased "Flaming Creatures," a sculptural installation at Judson Memorial Church in NYC, from March 6 to April 21, 2019. The exhibit included three angelic figures inspired by the ancient Mesopotamian Pazuzu, along with other sculptures on a makeshift altar, which partially concealed traditional angels by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. This installation resonated with the iconographic restrictions of Lent. Drawing from archaeological influences, Corwin utilized materials such as lead and concrete to create what he describes as "anxious objects." Known for its support of avant-garde artists and LGBTQ+ community, Judson Church, with Reverend Micah Bucey advocating for "a continual re-queering of the Gospel," planned a celebration for April 16, 2019. Corwin's works also represent the four evangelists, featuring a color palette inspired by Fra Angelico.
Key facts
- Installation ran March 6 to April 21, 2019 at Judson Memorial Church
- William Corwin created three angel forms based on Mesopotamian demon Pazuzu
- Works partially obscured traditional carved angels attributed to Augustus Saint-Gaudens
- Judson Church has historic ties to avant-garde artists including Rauschenberg and Oldenburg
- Reverend Micah Bucey oversaw the commission and advocates for queer Christianity
- Corwin's sculptures reference Jack Smith's 1963 film "Flaming Creatures"
- Installation included pieces cast in lead, rigid foam, hydrocal, and sand
- Celebration event scheduled for April 16, 2019 from 5-7:30 PM
Entities
Artists
- William Corwin
- Augustus Saint-Gaudens
- Harold Rosenberg
- Jack Smith
- Robert Rauschenberg
- Claes Oldenburg
- Jim Dine
- Trisha Brown
- Yvonne Rainer
- John La Farge
- D. Maitland Armstrong
- Fra Angelico
Institutions
- Judson Memorial Church
- Met Breuer
- New Museum
- Geary
- Bleecker Street Cinema
- San Marco convent
Locations
- New York City
- United States
- Florence
- Italy
- Venice
- Sepik River
- New Guinea