Lodo & Downtown Denver News (Review)

Sculpture A Diverse & Dominant Medium
By Sandra Phillips

Cultural diversity in the post modern world of art is an open door to a wide variety of art styles and personal responses to works of art. The creativity and personal expression of the artist is most always evident. In the 20th century, sculpture has again emerged as a major art for the first time in 400 years, However, in the history of art, sculpture has held a dominant place since ancient Egypt.

On exhibit at Artyard, 1251 South Pearl St., is the work of Dede LaRue. Her art has made me smile for many years. Her work now expresses new dimensions and directions. She mentioned that a recent trip to Thailand influences her art today. Since the early 1990s, LaRue's work has expanded to encompass mythological and wild animals, particularly endangered species. Over the years her sculpted forms have continued to probe our thoughts. Her work continues to tune our emotional and spiritual connections to nature. Her current show is mysterious and mystical--she has created beautifully diverse creatures from ancient mythology that pull the viewer closer to share their mystical space.

Using mixed media including, but not limited to, fiberglass, gypsum and feathers, the artist airbrushes these curious creatures in bold enamel colors. They are particularly alluring and realistic in the gallery's monumental presentation. The "satyr" pictured here is from ancient Greek mythology. A wild creature of the forest, satyrs had bodies, arms, faces and sexual organs of human men, combined with goat legs, hooves, tails, ears and horns. The artist creates with intense and sensuous forms using the inflection of the artist's hand while exploring all the elements of sculpture-space, mass, volume, line, texture, light and movement. Contemplating these beautiful sculptural forms engages the viewer in a consideration not only of the transforming power of art, but also in giving significance to these supernatural creatures serving as powerful metaphors for the connection between man and nature. LaRue's mythological forms will linger long after you've experienced the exhibit!