White "Yoko" series, 2007

White "Yoko" series, 2007

Black "Yoko" series, 2007

Don Brown "Don" solo exhibition: on view at Almine Rech Gallery from January 12 to February 9. Don Brown (born 1962) is a rising sculptural talent in the contemporary British art scene. His refined sculptures are rooted in the tradition of modern realism. Early works focused on self-portraits, presented in plain and diverse forms; exhibitions were often titled after the artist, "Don." For nearly ten years, he has used his wife, Yoko, as his sculptural subject. Her varied forms are lifelike. The reduced-scale statues avoid suspicion of direct casting. Set against extremely white or brilliantly black, extraordinary materials, they produce an impressive effect that is particularly lovely and exquisite, evoking a desire to embrace and protect her.

The downstairs display of the White "Yoko" series resembles ancient Egyptian statues. In various poses, she wears robes, underwear, swimsuits, work pants, is covered in white cloth, or wears high heels. With distinctive hairstyles and postures, four lifelike standing figures poetically present Yoko's diverse expressions. Upstairs, a full-black "Yoko" statue stands with hands crossed over her chest. The black color makes it more unsettling. Clearly, Don Brown's innovative sculptures use this diverse body language to convey extraordinary meaning and establish a rhythm, achieving flawlessness under traditional craftsmanship techniques.