Moving Forms

You may remember Chicago artist Nick Cave from Brian Keith Jackson’s “30 Americans” feature in the latest issue. His “Soundsuits,” named for the sound they create when they’re worn, are extensions of the artist’s work in fashion and dance. Cave studied and danced with Alvin Ailey before launching his own fashion line and boutique. To see those elaborate “Soundsuits” in motion is a marvelous experience (see video below), one that enables you to fully understand what the work is really about. Fusing elements of the ritualistic and the fantastic into living sculptures, Cave’s colors and compositions erupt as if a painting flared out into the third dimension.

At the Jack Shainman Gallery in NYC through February 7th you’ll find a small army of still soundsuits, almost muted, lined up on a pedestal waiting for someone to climb in and take them for a whirl. Created from found materials, woven hair, beads, etc., these bold works are impeccably ornate and detailed. Makes me want to see what world this garb would be worn in.

Also on view are Cave’s more “traditional” (not really) sculptures that further explore issues of race and identity.