BY JAN SWOOPE
Every artist’s work is unique, embodying something elemental of its maker, but Dylan Karges’ “clay bodies” are a rare sight indeed. It’s not often one comes by a mass installation of more than 1,000 ceramic figurines.
Each is “deliberately different, though roughly the same,” says the Starkville artist and sculptor, who individualizes his characters using small variations in clay composition, texture, size, firing techniques and color.
This mass installation of “little men” is featured in a Columbus Arts Council exhibit, which opens with a free reception for the public May 10 from 5:30-7 p.m.at the Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main St.
The title of the show, “Looking Forward,” is reflected in the faces of the clay bodies.
The concept of infinitesimal differences in the figures is rooted in Karges’ statement, ” … I don’t think any two individuals on this earth are created equal, but I feel with all my being that their presence is vital for the understanding of ourselves collectively.”
An ancient pull
Karges, a 2000 graduate of Mississippi State University, is the technical illustrator at the Cobb Institute of Archaeology at MSU. He’s been making the figures since he first joined the staff more than 10 years ago and began traveling to work on projects in Israel.
“This work has strongly influenced my work in ceramics, providing the inspiration for the clay bodies, which are loosely based on the cultic, votive figurines of the Ancient Near East,” Karges explained.
The Rankin County native is intrigued by the social impact of mass installations. And his population continues to grow. He’d like to eventually have about 2,000 figurines.
“I aim for my work to be compelling from across the room and invite investigation into the smallest of details … ”
Renee Sheridan of the Arts Council’s gallery committee is helping coordinate the show.
“Dylan’s work makes me think of the impression humanity would have on a first-time visitor to our world. The visitor would have no trouble grouping us together as a species,” Sheridan observed. “The differences in color and size and shape that seem so important to us would be hard to discern at first; I imagine the visitor would just think ‘these belong together.’ And that is the message I get from Dylan’s exciting and beautiful installation … we belong together.”
Landscapes
Karges’ talent isn’t limited to clay. He works in pastels, pottery and mosaic tile, among other mediums.
The upcoming show will include about 15 pastel landscape drawings of varying dimensions. The artist views landscapes as a counterpoint to the installation.
“I see landscape as a timeless witness to all of our triumphs, follies and tragedies … it will endure with or without us,” he said.
Sheridan remarked, “An art installation is meant to provoke creative thought, and Dylan’s large display of ceramic figures accomplishes this, while the quiet beauty of his drawings generates a peaceful atmosphere. This show should not be missed; it is unique to anything previously done at the gallery.”
For more information about the exhibit or reception, contact the CAC at 662-328-2787 or visit columbus-arts.org.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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