EXHIBIT REVIEW: Gary Simmons - Shine / Aesthetica Magazine Blog / April 13, 2011

Gary Simmons, Twins, 2011, Pastel on paper. 2 parts
Each: 106.68 x 76.20 cm. / 42 x 30 in.
Overall: 152.40 x 106.68 cm. / 60 x 42 in.

Concepts of Memory and Time: Gary Simmons, Simon Lee Gallery, London

Review by Sarah Richter for Aesthetica Magazine Blog

Haven’t we all wondered if antiques, places and objects from the past contain stories, memories of what has occurred and been seen. American artist Gary Simmons examines these same issues, confronting them in a most unconventional way. His second solo show, Shine, currently on exhibit at the Simon Lee Gallery draws its inspiration from Stanley Kubrick’s unforgettable 1980 horror film The Shining.

The over sized images take their cue from memorable motifs and moments from the film, such as tricycle in Big Wheel Spiral and the infamous quote, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” in The Diamond and Full Page. In addition to drawing inspiration from this American film classic, Simmons takes inspiration from the structure of the Bryce Hospital in Alabama. This hospital served as an institution for African Americans who were considered insane and unfit for a place in contemporary society in the early... [read the full article at Aesthetica Magazine].

Sarah Richter is a candidate for the MA in Art History at Richmond the American International University in London.

Gallery link