Tethered Worlds
SPENCER HANSEN
April 4 - May 26, 2024
508 W 28th St
New York, NY 10001
ABOUT THE ARTIST
PRESS
Spencer Hansen, Behind Closed Eyes, 2024
Known for his meticulous craftsmanship and adept understanding of contrasting elements, Spencer Hansen’s body of work serves as a reflection of the fleeting disposability of our modern society. Harnessing the inherent beauty of natural materials like metal, leather, wood, ceramic, bone, and hair, Hansen masterfully crafts ethereal sculptures that speak to narratives he created from childhood – narratives about a world where he belonged, inhabited by creatures. Each piece challenges observers to navigate the balance between darkness and light, allure and trepidation, and the comfort of the known set against the enigmatic. Drawing inspiration from timeless archetypal storytelling, Hansen’s creations beckon viewers to embark on a journey of introspection, exploring themes of metamorphosis and fragility.
Suffused with intricate details, imaginative landscapes, and peculiar beings, Tethered Worlds promises an unparalleled and immersive encounter that creates space for viewers to interpret their own experiences with vulnerability, community, and play.
About The Artist
SPENCER HANSEN
The interplay between exploration and heritage lies at the heart of Spencer Hansen's artistic journey. His childhood in rural Idaho cultivated an intricate relationship with familial tradition, while his nomadic nature exposed him to diverse landscapes.
Spencer has been living and working part time in Bali since 2007, where he co-created his main workshop and studio. Within his studio space, Spencer collaborates with Indonesian artisans to experiment with and refine processes, spanning from woodcarving to ceramics, metalworking to design. His reverence for a handmade approach and his own interest in exploring new processes creates an ever-evolving connection between his team and his creations.
His interest in sharing an experience through technical resonance plays a crucial role in his choice of medium, which consists mostly of natural materials. His intentional approach throughout his practice culminates in multimedia sculptures that evoke an otherworldly tenderness within viewers, embodying personas that encompass elements of his playful imagination.
Spencer Hansen: Sculpting Reveries
Spencer Hansen in his studio, 2024, Directed by Kezia Alexandra
PRESS
COLOSSAL / MARCH 2024