The Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA) is hosting a comprehensive retrospective of the influential American artist Maren Hassinger. The exhibition, titled "Maren Hassinger: The Poetics of Space," spans her five-decade career, from her early experiments with industrial materials to her recent large-scale installations that engage with the natural environment.
Exploring Material and Meaning
Hassinger, who emerged in the 1970s as part of a generation of artists exploring minimalism and conceptual art, is known for her use of humble materials such as wire, rope, newspaper, and plastic. Her work often blurs the boundaries between sculpture, dance, and performance, creating immersive environments that invite viewers to reconsider their relationship with the built and natural worlds. The retrospective includes over 100 works, including iconic pieces like "The Pink Dress" (1977) and "Twelve Baskets" (1990).
Environmental and Social Themes
Throughout her career, Hassinger has addressed themes of ecology, race, and gender. Her installations often incorporate natural elements such as trees, leaves, and vines, highlighting the interconnectedness of human and non-human life. The exhibition also features documentation of her performance works, which involve choreographed movements and interactions with materials. Curator Apsara DiQuinzio notes that Hassinger's practice is "a meditation on the poetics of space and the transformative power of materials."
Exhibition Highlights
- Early Works: Wire and rope sculptures from the 1970s that explore tension and form.
- Environmental Installations: Large-scale works that integrate natural materials, such as "Forest" (2005), a room filled with hanging vines.
- Performance Documentation: Videos and photographs of Hassinger's dance-based performances, including "The Body as Landscape" (1981).
- Recent Projects: New works created for the exhibition, including a site-specific installation in the museum's courtyard.
Visitor Information
The retrospective runs from June 20 to September 27, 2026, at the Berkeley Art Museum. Tickets are available online and at the museum. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Special programs include artist talks, workshops, and guided tours. For more information, visit the BAMPFA website.
