Set to be unveiled on October 27, 2023, at the Menil Drawing Institute is "Hanne Darboven—Writing Time," an exhibit that will run until February 11, 2024.
Spanning Darboven’s Illustrious Career
This exhibition provides an intimate look into Darboven’s deep exploration of line, text, and drawing. It delves into the visual representation of history's unfolding, the constant passage of time, and personal experiences within these temporal bounds.
Darboven's Connection with Sol LeWitt
In 1973, a heartfelt letter from Darboven to Sol LeWitt stood out as both a personal correspondence and an artistic manifesto. This letter captures her unique blend of writing and drawing, which became foundational to her artwork, capturing everything from numbers and dates to intricate patterns.
The Depth and Significance of Her Drawings
Rebecca Rabinow, Director of The Menil Collection, celebrates Darboven’s distinct approach: "Her serialized mark-making, influenced by her perception of time, offers a unique perspective on drawing and its importance."
Darboven's Artistic Evolution
The exhibit spotlights three significant phases of her career, ranging from abstract drawings to monumental installations. Notable pieces include Darboven's "Construction/Perforation" from 1966/67 and her analytical take on calendars as tools for time measurement. A highlight is "Inventions that Have Changed Our World, 1996", a vast installation encompassing over 1,300 sheets that delve into inventors' biographies and the lasting impacts of their creations.
About The Menil Collection
Founded by philanthropists John and Dominique de Menil in 1954, the Menil Collection has been a beacon for the appreciation of art and culture. The Menil Drawing Institute, established in 2008, further exemplifies this mission, emphasizing the importance of drawing in modern and contemporary art. For more details and to plan your visit, explore Menil.org.