Re:Purposed

• Accompanies a major exhibition at the Ringling Museum of Art, Florida, from 13 February to 17 May 2015
• Features well-known soundsuits by Nick Cave and sculptures by El Anatsui, as well as installations from Jill Sigman, the dumpster project by Mac Premo, ethereal sculpture by Aurora Robson, and high fashion textiles woven from cassette tape by Alyce Santoro

This fascinating, fully illustrated book explores several recognisable trends among artists who consistently ‘re-purpose’ garbage or detritus to create works that examine identity and environment. Each theme is a potent reminder of our close connection to the materials we use to create and facilitate our lives. In the deft hands of these artists, those connections are far from severed when these materials are discarded. The book illustrates well-known sound suits by Nick Cave and sculptures by El Anatsui, as well as installations from Jill Sigman, the dumpster project by Mac Premo, ethereal sculpture by Aurora Robson and high fashion textiles woven from cassette tape by Alyce Santoro.

Featuring interviews with the artists, this cleverly designed volume highlights both recognisable and unpublished works of art from established and emerging artists in the field.

Matthew McLendon is the Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, Florida.