Book now: Conrad Shawcross talk at the V&A

Friday 17 March 2017, 19.00 - 20.00

The Lydia & Manfred Gorvy Lecture Theatre

Imbued with an appearance of scientific rationality, Conrad Shawcross’s sculptures explore subjects that lie on the borders of geometry and philosophy, physics and metaphysics.

Attracted by failed quests for knowledge in the past, he often appropriates redundant theories and methodologies to create ambitious structural and mechanical montages, using a wide variety of materials and media, and often working on an epic scale. Different technologies and natural forces inspire his forms, but his mysterious machines and structures remain enigmatic, filled with paradox and wonder.

Some have an absurdist melancholy feel, while others tend to the sublime. Recently, Shawcross has developed the scale of his practice, taking on architectural spaces with work that combines epic scope and poetic grace.  

The cloak of the rational to conceal the poetic.

Hidden devices within an array of machines, systemic structures and failed models.

Shawcross is known for his intricate, mechanical, often large-scale works, drawing inspiration from a mix of philosophy, history and science. Join the artist for a discussion of his latest works - public, institutional and private.

Friday 17 March, 19.00 - 20.00

 £10 / £7 concessions 

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Portrait: Marc Wilmot