The Roots and Shoots of Language: Artist Michael Dean

Video Description

Presented October 22, 2016 at Nasher Sculpture Center. Artist Michael Dean’s work explores themes of language, the act of writing and the struggle to communicate in a variety of forms, including sculpture, photography, poetry, plays, publications and performance. Often made of concrete forms cast in flexible plastic bags, Dean’s sculptures sometimes vaguely resemble letters of the alphabet and are occasionally installed on top of Dean’s self-published books filled with gibberish or nonsensical phrases printed in handmade, pictogram lettering. These abstract, industrial objects, however, project an extraordinary humanity: often slightly hunched, slumped, or leaning, the sculptures take on human qualities that elicit our sympathy. We feel for these slightly downtrodden creatures and connect with their plight. In this 360 Speaker Presentation, Michael Dean is joined by Nasher Sculpture Center Chief Curator Jed Morse in a conversation about his exhibition 'Sightings: Michael Dean' on view October 22, 2016–February 5, 2017. The Nasher Sculpture Center’s ongoing 360 Speaker Series features conversations and lectures on the ever-expanding definition of sculpture. Guests are invited to witness first-hand accounts of the inspiration behind some of the world’s most innovative artwork, architecture and design. Find out more about the 360 Speaker Series and view presentation by past speakers at http://www.nashersculpturecenter.org/360 Presenting Sponsor: Martha and Max Wells. The 360 videography project is supported by Suzanne and Ansel Aberly. This support enables digital recording of all 360 Speaker Series programs and the creation of an online archive for learners of all ages. Additional support for the 360 Speaker Series provided by Sylvia Hougland.