Now on view at Grounds For Sculpture (GFS), “Rebirth: Kang Muxiang” is an exhibition of six large-scale sculptures by Taiwanese artist Kang Muxiang sited outdoors in the gardens.
Massive yet graceful, the embryonic forms are made from steel elevator cables from Taipei 101, one of the world’s tallest buildings. The works range in size, with the largest standing nearly 10 feet tall and weighing several thousand pounds.
Kang began his artistic practice with traditional woodcarving at age 13. Eventually turning to other media, the artist has also worked in bronze and stainless steel.
In 2002, Kang spent a year living a largely solitary and primitive lifestyle on Guishan (Turtle Island), off the coast of Taiwan. This experience motivated him to create his “Life” series of sculptures that explores how our way of life impacts future generations.
In 2013 Kang was invited by Taipei 101 to create art using expired cables from the building’s elevators. Coated in black viscous oil from their long use, the elevator cables must be cleaned as the first step in the artist’s process.
To aid with this process, Kang employs inmates from a minimum-security prison in a program that renews not just the worn cables but also the assistants’ spirits and sense of purpose.
“Rebirth,” on view through May, comes to Grounds For Sculpture following exhibitions in Washington, D.C., and the Garment District in New York City.
Kang visits Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton, N.J., Aug. 13, joined by Executive Director Gary Garrido Schneider and Chief Curator Tom Moran for a special Art Salon including a tour of “Rebirth.” A presentation by and discussion with the artist, followed by a gourmet three-course meal will take place at Rat’s Restaurant. Members of the public are invited, and tickets are on sale now.
Visit groundsforsculpture.org for information.
