Richard Deacon

Richard Deacon, born in 1949 in Bangor, Wales, is a renowned British sculptor celebrated for his abstract and fluid forms that explore the interplay between structure, material, and space. Deacon's work is known for its innovative use of a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, ceramics, and plastics. He often combines these materials in unexpected ways, crafting dynamic sculptures that emphasize movement and organic forms, while challenging traditional notions of sculpture. His pieces frequently blur the boundaries between the industrial and the organic, resulting in works that are both physically imposing and sensually fluid.Deacon first gained recognition in the 1980s as part of a group of British sculptors, including Tony Cragg and Antony Gormley, who redefined contemporary sculpture through their experimentation with form and material. His early work, such as Struck Dumb (1988), demonstrates his interest in organic shapes and curving lines, often appearing almost as if they are in motion. These sculptures, with their sinuous, free-flowing shapes, challenge the viewer's perception of space and form.Throughout his career, Deacon has remained committed to the idea of "fabrication," often describing himself as a "fabricator" rather than a sculptor. This emphasis on the process of making is central to his practice. His works are meticulously constructed, often exposing the methods of their assembly through visible joints, seams, or rivets, which add another layer of complexity to the pieces. The tension between the finished form and the visible construction is a recurring theme in his work, highlighting the relationship between craftsmanship and artistic expression.Deacon’s versatility with materials and his ability to manipulate scale allow him to create works that range from intimate, smaller-scale pieces to monumental public sculptures. One of his most notable works, Between the Eyes (1990), features complex, curved metal forms that seem to defy gravity, showcasing his mastery of balance and form. His public sculptures, such as Let's Not Be Stupid (1991) in London and Infinity (1993) in Japan, highlight his ability to create art that interacts with its environment and invites viewers to engage with the work from multiple perspectives.Over the course of his career, Richard Deacon has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Turner Prize in 1987. He has exhibited extensively in major museums and galleries worldwide, including the Tate, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. His contributions to contemporary sculpture have cemented his reputation as one of Britain’s leading sculptors, known for his inventive approach to material and form, as well as his intellectual engagement with the process of making art.