Ruby City’s fall 2018 exhibition, Reclaimed, is a presentation of 25 monochromatic works by some of the most influential contemporary female artists working today, all drawn from the Foundation’s diverse collection. Artists include Laura Aguilar, Dorothy Cross, Judy Dater, Annette Messager, Lorraine O’Grady, Robyn O’Neil, Linda Pace, Tracey Rose, Lara Schnitger and Kiki Smith, with works spanning 1975 through 2009.R
As the title implies, the exhibition addresses the concept of ownership—both literally and figuratively—and the notion of “reclaiming” what’s ours, from our lands and governments to our physical bodies and basic human rights. Central to each of the works on view are themes of nature, identity and the female form, often times as a depiction of non-traditional feminine ideals.
Throughout the exhibition, the color palette—or lack thereof—and focus on photography, film, cast sculpture and works on paper, underscores the seriousness of the subject matter and harkens back to more traditional methods of artistic production. A departure from the Foundation’s typical spotlight on experimental and new media works, this unexpected selection provides insight into the depth and variedness of the permanent collection.
“My subjects are my cast of characters, I choose them instinctively for what I perceive to be their ability to express emotions, to be playful, sexy and humorous, to reveal what I identify as soul.”
Annette Messager, "Mes voeux sous filets," 2000
Dorothy Cross, "Arms," 1996
Judy Dater, "Twinka and Tree," 1970
Judy Dater, "Imogen and Twinka at Yosemite," 1974
Judy Dater, "Linda's Dream," 1975
Judy Dater, "Self Portrait in Mist," 1980
Judy Dater, "Tai Chi Woman," 1997
Kiki Smith, "Las Animas," 1997
Lara Schnitger, "Dix-huit+," 2005
Laura Aguilar, "Stillness #36, #37, #38, #39, #40, #41," 1999
Lorraine O’Grady, "The Fir-Palm," 1991-1992
Robyn O'Neil, "The fallen one (There does come a time when laughs become sighs; we put all to rest, we said our goodbyes.)," 2009
Tracey Rose, "Lolita With Her Legs Spread," 2000
Annette Messager
Kiki Smith
Lara Schnitger
Linda Pace
Lorraine O'Grady
Robyn O’Neil
Tracey Rose