Grenville Davey

By Air

1989

Not on display

Artist: Grenville Davey born 1961
Medium: Hardboard, wood and steel
Dimensions: Displayed: 1850 x 3250 x 1850 mm
Collection: Tate
Acquisition: Presented by Janet Wolfson de Botton 1996
Reference: T07183

Display caption

In 'By Air', Davey has expanded the flat and regular geometric shape of the circle into an irregular three-dimensional form to explore the relationship between flatness and volume. The external surface is a thickly applied, industrial, spray-painted finish. This softens the edges and makes them look moulded rather than hand-made. Davey has described the contrast between the smooth external surface and the side facing the wall; 'you can actually see around the back. They are stitched together with any old bit of tubing or wiring and dozens of screws. It is very theatrical - like keeping the flood at bay'.

Gallery label, August 2004

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