William J. O'Brien
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Madison Museum of Contemporary Art 227 State St., Madison, Wisconsin 53703
Reliquary features a series of immersive, mysterious material studies by Chicago based artist William O’Brien. Abstract patterns repeat across a wide array of materials, the work becoming part consideration of medium and part purely transformational, as received forms transform into (as the show’s title suggests) holy relics. The centerpiece comes in the form of a full-sized Muslim tent adorned with the artist’s drawings, providing both a space for viewers to take in the work, and a piece in itself. Catch this exhibit before it leaves MMoCA.
press release: FRIDAY, AUGUST 17, 6-9 PM MMOCA OPENING: WILLIAM J. O’BRIEN: RELIQUARY
Join us for the opening of William J. O’Brien: Reliquary, including a talk by the artist at 6:30 pm. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres from Fresco, a cash bar, and live music. MMoCA Openings are free for members and $10 for non-members. Lecture Hall seating is limited.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 17, 6:30-7:15 PM ARTIST TALK. William J. O’Brien employs an extraordinarily versatile approach to image-making. The artist will discuss his exuberant work and wide-ranging exploration of material. MMoCA Openings are free for members / $10 for non-members. Lecture Hall seating is limited.
FRIDAY, OCT 19, 6:30-7 PM, GALLERY TALK: 10 WAYS TO EXPERIENCE THE WORK OF WILLIAM J. O’BRIEN: With its idiosyncratic imagery and range of media, William J. O’Brien’s work encourages exploration from a variety of perspectives. Michael Velliquette will lead viewers through Reliquary using novel methods of interpretation and sensory investigation to expand awareness and appreciation of O’Brien’s practice.
Velliquette is an artist and faculty associate in the UW-Madison Art Department whose intricate paper sculptures combine exuberant abundance with inventive formalism.