The Madoo Conservancy in Sagaponack presents “Keith Sonnier: Selections from the Herd Series” on view in the summer studio through September 16.
“Keith Sonnier: Selections from the Herd Series” features three neon sculptures and ten works on paper from 2006 to 2008. The abstract sculptures of the “Herd” series draw their inspiration from Africa and the wild animals of the Safari. Sonnier, a talented draftsman, immersed himself in studies of bone relics of Mastodons and other herd animals in the photographic archives and dioramas at the Museum of Natural History before embarking on the series.
His process is revealed in the expressive and spontaneous works on paper which served as studies for the sculptures. The works were also influenced by the artist’s travels to India, the Far East, and Brazil, and reflect his interest in other cultures and anthropology.
The sculptures of the “Herd” series evoke gazelles, antelopes, buffalos, elephants, and birds in elegant gestural lines of neon light.
Madoo is open to the public Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 12 to 4 PM and by appointment. Register at madoo.org/visit.