Highlights from Art Basel: Davide Balula Mimed Sculptures

Recalling the shallow objects of virtual reality, Davide Balula presents a live performance that mimes canonical sculpture works. Above empty plints of various sizes, a group of mimes rebuilds iconic modernist sculptures by Louise Bourgeois, Alberto Giacometti, Eva Hesse, Tony Smith, Barbara Hepworth, David Smith and Henry Moore. Surrounded by an off-white setting, the mimes, all dressed in clinical clothing, almost blend with the backdrop, just their pink gloved hands shape the air hypnotizing the gaze of the spectators with their elegant and restless movements. The invisible scuptures are perceptible only when their contours are being exposed and touched. Each fragment disappears once the mime’s hand moves, challenging the viewer’s visual memory to make out the form as a whole. The object as a tangible entity disappears to be replaced by feelings, impressions, and personal interpretations. Balula performance goes beyond the skin, engaging viewers in a real sensorial experience, overcoming gravity and geometry, which become smooth and organic when represented in the air. 

 

  • Highlights from Art Basel: Davide Balula Mimed Sculptures

    Article by
    Cecilia Musmeci

    Published

    Photography

    Cecilia Musmeci

    References

    Art Basel
    Galerie Frank Elbaz
    Gagosian Gallery