Mike Kelley's Memory Ware series is a significant part of his complex output, comprising over 100 works created in the early 21st century, explored in a 2016 exhibition at Hauser & Wirth New York.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 14 October 2020
Publisher: Hauser & Wirth

Mike Kelley's Memory Ware series, a significant part of his extensive and conceptually rich body of work, is the focus of this survey. Spanning four decades, Kelley's career was characterized by a relentless critique of aesthetic conventions and a comprehensive exploration of all forms of culture. Within this period, he produced approximately one hundred Memory Ware and related works, which are showcased in this catalogue following their exhibition at Hauser & Wirth New York from November to December 2016. This publication is a collaborative effort between the artist's estate and the Mike Kelley Foundation for the Arts.

Mike Kelley's Memory Ware Series: A Survey of His Material and Conceptually Complex Output

Mike Kelley (1954 - 2012) was a prolific artist who left a lasting impact on the art world. Over the course of his four-decade career, he created a rich oeuvre that critically questioned aesthetic conventions and examined all forms of culture. The approximately one hundred Memory Ware and associated works were made during the first decade of the 21st century, and all of them are reproduced in this catalogue following the exhibition at Hauser & Wirth New York from November to December 2016. Co-published with the Mike Kelley Foundation for the Arts, this publication provides a comprehensive overview of Kelley's Memory Ware series and its significance in his artistic legacy.

A Survey of Mike Kelley's Memory Ware Series

Mike Kelley's Memory Ware series is a significant part of his extensive and conceptually rich body of work. It occupies a prominent place in Kelley's materially and conceptually complex output, reflecting his deep engagement with the medium of sculpture and his interest in exploring the boundaries of art and culture. The series comprises a wide range of works, including sculptures, installations, photographs, and videos, all of which are characterized by their unique and innovative approach to memory and the representation of cultural identity.

The First Decade of the 21st Century: A Period of Innovation and Experimentation

The first decade of the 21st century was a period of innovation and experimentation for Kelley. He began to explore new materials and techniques, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in sculpture and art. This period saw the emergence of a new generation of artists who were interested in challenging traditional notions of art and culture, and Kelley was at the forefront of this movement.

The Memory Ware Series: A Reflection of Kelley's Personal Experience

The Memory Ware series is a reflection of Kelley's personal experience. He was born in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in a family that was deeply involved in the automotive industry. This experience had a significant impact on his work, and he often used the imagery of cars and other objects associated with the automotive industry in his sculptures and installations.

The Memory Ware Series: A Critical Analysis

The Memory Ware series has been the subject of critical analysis and debate. Some critics have praised it for its innovative approach to memory and the representation of cultural identity, while others have criticized it for its perceived lack of depth and meaning. However, regardless of these criticisms, the series remains a significant and influential work in the art world.

The Memory Ware Series: A Legacy of Innovation and Inspiration

Mike Kelley's Memory Ware series has left a lasting legacy of innovation and inspiration. It has inspired countless artists and has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums around the world. Kelley's unique approach to memory and the representation of cultural identity has challenged traditional notions of art and culture, and has helped to shape the direction of contemporary art.

Conclusion

Mike Kelley's Memory Ware series is a significant and complex body of work that critically questioned aesthetic conventions and examined all forms of culture. The approximately one hundred Memory Ware and associated works were made during the first decade of the 21st century, and all of them are reproduced in this catalogue following the exhibition at Hauser & Wirth New York from November to December 2016. Co-published with the Mike Kelley Foundation for the Arts, this publication provides a comprehensive overview of Kelley's Memory Ware series and its significance in his artistic legacy. Whether you are an art lover or a student of art history, this series is sure to inspire and challenge you.

Weight: 1698g
Dimension: 251 x 326 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783952446140