Frank Gehry’s ‘Ruminations’ at Gagosian: Blending Sculpture with Architecture in a Visionary Exhibition

Gagosian Gallery is delighted to announce "Ruminations," a compelling exhibition by the legendary Frank Gehry, set to open its doors at the esteemed gallery's 976 Madison Avenue location in New York on February 8, 2024. This exhibition marks a significant moment as it showcases Gehry's new sculptures and works on paper, offering an insightful glimpse into the mind of an architect who views the natural world as a reservoir of inspiration for the future of architecture.

At the heart of "Ruminations" are Gehry's Fish Lamps, an evolution of his exploration into organic forms that began in the mid-1980s and continued into the 2010s. These sculptures, crafted from the reflective surfaces of copper and Formica, embody the fluidity and dynamism of aquatic life, serving as a metaphor for architectural innovation. Gehry's fascination with the fish as a "perfect form" has been a recurring theme in his work, evident in the undulating profiles of his iconic buildings such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Guggenheim Bilbao.

Gehry's work transcends the traditional boundaries between architecture and sculpture, with his architectural projects often mirroring the primal, natural forms found in his sculptural pieces. The exhibition's large-scale fish sculptures, visible from Madison Avenue, and the Crocodile Lamp sculpture highlight Gehry's unique ability to infuse architectural concepts with the essence of natural forms, creating a dialogue between the built environment and the organic world.

Frank Gehry's artistic journey is a testament to his relentless pursuit of breaking the mold of postmodernist architecture. His foray into furniture design and sculpture, including the innovative use of materials like corrugated cardboard and ColorCore plastic laminate, showcases his commitment to exploring new forms and materials. Gehry's work on paper, also featured in "Ruminations," reveals the spontaneous and energetic nature of his creative process, further emphasizing the integral role of organic forms in his work.

Born in Toronto in 1929, Gehry has established himself as a seminal figure in contemporary architecture, with his buildings and sculptures gracing major cities and galleries worldwide. His accolades, including the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize, underscore his profound impact on the field. Beyond his architectural achievements, Gehry's commitment to urban equity and social justice, evident in his philanthropic efforts, highlights his holistic approach to design, one that encompasses both aesthetic innovation and social responsibility.

"Ruminations" presents a unique opportunity to experience the confluence of art and architecture through the lens of Frank Gehry's visionary work. As Gehry himself has stated, the fish has been his model for the future of architecture, embodying sculptural movement and organic form. This exhibition invites visitors to delve into Gehry's world, where the boundaries between natural forms and architectural design blur, creating a harmonious and inspiring dialogue.

Join us at Gagosian, 976 Madison Avenue, from February 8 to April 6, 2024, to witness this extraordinary fusion of art, architecture, and nature.