On view: September 7 –October 5, 2002
Opening reception: Sunday, September 8, 4–7pm

pulpit

karl jensen

Pulpit, a 25 ft. high structure, designed and built by Karl Jensen, is the third exhibition in the series Architecture at five myles. This work continues Jensen’s exploration of expanded applications of common construction techniques such as interlocking, stacking and folding. These familiar techniques become unorthodox when applied to large-scale construction made with conventional materials. In this exhibition aluminum, steel, plastic and concrete are used.

The body of the pulpit is composed of six interlocking plates. An intricate steel staircase leads up to the pulpit It has been generated from a flat, geometric pattern. When pulled apart and folded upon itself, the pattern creates a floriated gothic staircase. A canopy crowns the pulpit. Designed to evoke a ball of fire, it is suspended from a chain of interlocking monkeys. The canopy is separately installed, due to the limited height of the gallery. The pulpit itself is borne on the back of six two-headed turtles.

This richly articulated work is intended, in part, as an expression of the architect/artist’s dissatisfaction with the physical poverty of contemporary architecture. Set against this, Pulpithas a deliberate, unequivocal presence that rejects the prevailing timidity of architecture and offers something generous and accessible instead.

Karl Jensen has shown his work at the Sculpture Center, The Architecture League and Socrates Sculpture Park in New York, the Royal Academy in London, among others. His drawings will be exhibited at the Drawing Center in New York this Fall.

DIRECTIONS:

Take 2, 3, or 4 trains to Franklin Avenue. Walk two blocks against the traffic on Franklin. Walk ¾ block to 558 St. Johns Place. FiveMyles is within easy walking distance from the Brooklyn Museum.