Kuri created a number of powder-coated metal sculptures that replaced the fair’s existing outdoor ashtrays. These sculptures required the direct interaction of the audience to complete the works. As they were used, the surface became soiled and damaged by refuse and burns that accumulate throughout the duration of the fair. The sculptures questioned not only the relationship between viewer, functional object and artwork, but also their position in the transitory space between inside and out.
Gabriel Kuri is a Mexican artist (b.1970) based in Mexico City and Brussels. Recent solo exhibitions include: Galleria Franco Noero, Turin (2009); Sadie Coles HQ, London (2008); kurimanzutto, Mexico City (2007) and Esther Schipper Gallery, Berlin (both 2007); and Govett Brewster Art Gallery, New Plymouth, New Zealand (2006). Recent group exhibitions include: 5 Berlin Biennale (2008); ‘Unmonumental’, New Museum, New York and ‘Brave New Worlds’, Walker Art Center, Minneapolis (both 2007); ‘State of Play’, Serpentine Gallery, London (2004) and ‘Interludes’, L Venice Biennale (2003). Forthcoming solo exhibitions include: Museion Bolzano, Italy; Kunstverein Freiburg, Germany (traveling to Kunstverein Bielefeld, Germany) (2010); Houston University Museum, USA (2010), traveling to ICA, Boston (2011).
