Belgian artist Berlinde De Bruyckere’s work is currently on view at Hauser & Wirth in New York. The solo exhibition No Life Lost is centered by the monumental project Kreupelhout – Cripplewood, an ambitious work composed of wax, wood, fabric, blankets and ropes, reminiscent of a decomposed stack of bones. The almost entirely dark exhibition space underlines the macabre atmosphere created by the eerie art pieces. De Bruyckere’s work is informed by traditional Flemish Renaissance paintings whose influence she translates into a contemporary psychological terrain of pathos, tenderness and repulsion. Skin-like draperies are hanging from the ceiling and hauntingly distorted animal carcasses are presented on tables and glass vitrines. The artist’s interested in the dualities of the human condition are immediately apparent to the viewer. The ordinarily repulsive vision of a decomposing animal carcass becomes alluring while the shrine-like presentation allows for a sense of quiet respect. No Life Lost will be on view at Houser & Wirth until April 2, 2016. Text and photographs by Adriana Pauly
