Fifty years may now be an obligatory cornerstone in life, but five decades in business is still truly a marvel. Architect Michael Graves is one of few who can celebrate that professional milestone, and is justly the subject of a retrospective now running at Grounds for Sculpture, a 42-acre not-for-profit sculpture park located in Hamilton, New Jersey. 'Past as Prologue' not only presents some of Graves' most seminal architecture and product design work, but also features never-seen-before sketches, drawings and artwork that chart his creative evolution right up to present day.
Taking over several buildings in the park, as well as occupying its grounds, 'Past as Prologue' lovingly juxtaposes Graves' architectural and design accomplishments with unexpected works of art. From intricately detailed models of Denver Central Library (1994) to his iconic 1984 tea kettle for Alessi and his range of bowls for Stuben Glass, Graves' breadth is remarkable. In addition to products, models and furniture, the exhibition offers a rare insight into Graves' working process with sketches of recognisable projects in progress, including one of Taiwan's National Museum of Prehistory.
Visitors can also get an in-depth look at the Linear City project, which Graves worked on together with architect Peter Eisenman back in the 1960s, long before either architect had gained recognition. The series of pencil and pastel sketches articulate an urban plan comprised of two parallel strips, one for industry and the other for homes, retail and services. 'Reminiscing over 50 years of projects is wonderful for me, but I am most excited about how the future of our practice is evolving from the energetic collaboration of our disciplines,' Graves said.
There's plenty of Graves on view in New York City too; Studio Vendome is in the midst of showing a collection of his landscape and still life paintings. Curated by Jane Adlin, who was an associate curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the exhibition comprises over 60 works that highlight Graves' favoured places, such as idyllic countryside vistas and the Mausoleum of Helena in Rome, as well as intimate still life compositions - a true reflection of the places and spaces he once inhabited. Together, both shows form a holistic tribute to one deeply creative soul.
Titled 'Past as Prologue' the exhibtion presents some of Graves' most seminal architecture and product design work alongside never-seen-before sketches, drawings and artwork. 8
'Reminiscing over 50 years of projects is wonderful for me, but I am most excited about how the future of our practice is evolving from the energetic collaboration of our disciplines,' Graves said
Taking over several buildings in the park, as well as occupying its grounds, 'Past as Prologue' juxtaposes Graves' architectural and design accomplishments with unexpected works of art.
The iconic black Push Button Telephone - one of the many products that Graves designed for Target between 1998 and 2013. - is displayed alongside original sketches, prototypes and renderings.
Graves' 1984 Tea Kettle with the whistling bird for Alessi is one of the most recognisable items on display.
The exhibition offers a rare insight into Graves' working process with sketches of recognisable projects in progress.
Visitors can also get an in-depth look at the Linear City project, which Graves worked on together with architect Peter Eisenman back in the 1960s.
The series of pencil and pastel sketches articulate an urban plan comprised of two parallel strips, one for industry and the other for homes, retail and services
Another sketch from Linear City by Michael Graves and Peter Eisenman,1965.
Other never-seen-before work includes sketches for Taiwan's National Museum of Prehistory
An untitled sketch by Graves in pencil on clay coated paper
'Whistling Bird Studies', by Michael Graves
Martel College, Rice University, 2003.
Hyatt Regency Fukuoka, Japan, 1990-1993
International Finance Corporation Headquarters, Washington DC, 1992 - 1997, 2005
425 Fifth Avenue, New York, 2000 - 2003
Also on show: 'Gala' by Michael Graves for ILEX Architectural Lighting, which launched last May during New York Design Week at WantedDesign
There's plenty of Graves on view in New York City too; Studio Vendome is in the midst of showing a collection of his landscape and still life paintings. The exhibition comprises over 60 works that highlight Graves' favoured places, such as idyllic countryside vistas seen in works like 'Shaker Barn', 2009
ADDRESS
Grounds for Sculpture
18 Fairgrounds Road
Trenton
New Jersey
Studio Vendome
330 Spring Stre
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