12 July - 01 November, 2020
Anish Kapoor
AT HOUGHTON
The Exhibition
Seminal works by the celebrated British sculptor Anish Kapoor were showcased across the grounds and historic interiors of Houghton Hall in Norfolk for the exhibition "Anish Kapoor at Houghton Hall" (12 July – 1 November 2020).
The exhibition featured 24 sculptures as well as a selection of drawings and smaller works representative of Kapoor’s ground-breaking body of work created over the past 40 years. Presented together, this series of works challenged the classical architecture of the house and the idyllic beauty of the grounds, while being in continuous dialogue and engagement with Houghton’s history.
The exhibition featured some of Kapoor’s major works in mirror and stone, including Sky Mirror (2018) – a 5-metre diameter mirror of stainless steel that reflects and transforms the space around it, turning the world upside down – and a series of carved marble sculptures created in 2001 – 2003 which were displayed across the grounds. A number of works were also shown inside the house, including a series of dramatic sandstone sculptures in the gallery spaces.
About the Artist
Sir Anish Kapoor CBE, RA, born on March 12, 1954, in Mumbai, is a British-Indian sculptor specializing in installation and conceptual art. He is renowned for his exploration of the void through freestanding stone and marble pieces, as well as polished steel and concave mirrors reflecting the world on their surfaces. Kapoor gained international acclaim, winning the Turner Prize in 1991. His iconic "Untitled" work stands as a permanent feature in parklands. Throughout his career, Kapoor has created monumental artworks, notably "Cloud Gate" in Chicago's Millennium Park, exploring themes of space, color, and form. His sculptures are celebrated worldwide and are featured in collections globally, solidifying his status as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
Acknowledgements
Presented by Houghton Arts Foundation. HAF continues to build a collection of contemporary art in the grounds of Houghton Hall, including a number of site-specific commissions. Sponsored by Dorotheeum with support from Lisson Gallery.
"Anish Kapoor is a magician. His elegant reflective pieces throw back the world in mysterious ways. We are proud to have the opportunity to present an important group of Anish Kapoor’s work at Houghton, and are delighted to be able to welcome visitors once again.”
Lord Cholmondeley