Christmas Tree, 1998
© Richard Wilson
Christmas Tree, 1998
© Richard Wilson
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Richard Wilson
Christmas Tree (detail), 1998
metal shelving units, Chinese metal Xmas tree,
Maxi bins and lights
The Tate Gallery commissioned Richard
Wilson to create the Christmas Tree for 1998. Rather than work with a conventional
tree, he has decided to create a sculpture using industrial and found materials
to express both the order and the chaos of Christmas.
The structure of the tree was formed from basic workshop style shelving
units. Wilson decorated these units with functional storage boxes in bright
primary colours, reminiscent of Christmas parcels, and bare electric bulbs
housed in wire cages. An artificial tree was suspended within the framework
of the shelving. Made from metal, the tree was skeletal like the shelving
units and was originally covered with glitter in an effort to make it appear
festive. The result was sparely kitsch, intended to evoke both the glamour
of Christmas and the empty materialism so often beneath it.
The commission was supported by the Patrons of New Art
Biography:
Richard Wilson was born in 1953 in London. He studied at the London College
of Printmaking (1970-1), Hornsey College of Art (1971-4) and then at Reading
University (1974-6). He lives and works in London. He was shortlisted for
the Turner Prize in 1988 and 1989.
