Terry Adkins & the Spirit World
Terry Adkins, from Fog Design+Art.
I recently had the privilege of seeing Terry Adkins' work, up close, at Fog Design+Art in San Francisco.
It gripped me, immediately, in that powerful way when the visceral reaction of a piece draws you in, almost like falling through the looking glass. My adoration of his physical piece, made even more rich by the social context behind his work.
Terry Adkins blended social commentary, historical reference, and cultural themes held together with sound.
“My quest has been to find a way to make music as physical as sculpture might be, and sculpture as ethereal as music is,” he said. “It’s kind of challenging to make both of those pursuits do what they are normally not able to do.”
Adkins found rich connections between cultural icons like Jimmy Hendricks & Dr. King; he heralded the voice & attempted to expose the contribution of musician Bessie Smith to the level that her talent deserved.
His attention to detail & his ability to connect meaning between seemingly disparate objects results in powerful unexpected representations that strengthen his message and creates a depth of experience that holds one captive.
Terry Adkins' all-too-soon death is truly a loss to our society. He gave voice to those who weren't celebrated as their remarkable contributions should have allowed. He was so young with still so much to say and is now part of the 'spirit world' that he created.
Adlers' work, is a must-see. To witness his pieces employing all the senses, was as the artist intended the experience to be. A gift to us and to those for which his work represents.
Thank you, Mr. Adkins.