JUSTIN MATHERLY

Be so kind as to dilate upon the mechanics of the thing (we came more and more to feel that, motion being inherent in matter, the prime mover existed only as an illusion, and that all that exists essentially having to be in motion, the motor was useless)

September 20 - November 1, 2009

Links:
Matherly's first project at Dispatch in Feb 07
Matherly's project for Present Future at Artissima 08
Download DISPATCH 1 / Interviews with Justin Matherly

Dispatch is pleased to announce a solo exhibition by Brooklyn-based artist Justin Matherly. This exhibition follows Matherly’s interest in considering philosophical concepts through the sculptural form. Using materials such as cast concrete and metals and plastics from ambulatory devices (crutches, walkers, etc.) for the infirm, his sculptures take on a density both of sculptural complexity and as vessels of nuanced ideas.

Drawing on writings of Marquis de Sade among other texts on the tenuous relationship between transgression and emancipation, Matherly creates structures that convey an impression of force and weight with an underlying fragility. His sculptures literally block the viewer and also have a certain opacity for legibility yet there still exists a space for interpretation and enquiry.

‘Holidays come and go. Clothes wear out. Bank accounts go up and down. But philosophy lasts a lifetime. Wisdom leads to happiness; examines the importance of reason, beauty and justice; shows how to harness the power of attention. Finally leading to freedom and happiness. But philosophy is not the art of consoling the weak; it has no other aim but to bring soundness of mind and to uproot its prejudices. I do not bring consolation, the misuse of words and the twisting of meanings were responsible for all your errors, let us now make a just analysis of this virtue wicked teachers sought to make you hate.’

Matherly’s work has been exhibited at EFA Gallery, Gavin Brown’s Enterprise, Jack Shainman Gallery, Dispatch (all New York), Liste09, Basel, CH; Jorg Grimm Gallery, Amsterdam, NL; Artissima 15 in Turin, IT. Matherly holds a Certificate in Painting from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, a B.F.A. from the University of Pennsylvania and an M.F.A. from Hunter College.

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