Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Tom Otterness Biography
Tom Otterness, born in Wichita, Kansas, in 1952, is a distinguished American sculptor renowned for his extensive contributions to public art. His journey into the art world began when he moved to New York City in 1970 to study at the Arts Students League. Further honing his skills, Otterness participated in the Whitney Independent Study Program in 1973. His early career was marked by a pivotal moment in 1977 when he became a member of Collaborative Projects (Colab), a groundbreaking community of independent artists. This collective was instrumental in producing influential group exhibitions, including the notable Times Square Show in 1980, dubbed “the first avant-garde art show of the ‘80s” by the Village Voice.
Otterness's work is characterized by its whimsical, satirical depictions of animals and human figures, often exploring complex themes of class, race, gender, and the struggles of the "little man" against capitalist forces. His sculptures, ranging from monumental to palm-sized, are created using the "lost wax" casting process. This technique has allowed him to populate public spaces around the world with his engaging bronze figures, making art accessible and enjoyable to a broad audience.
One of Otterness's most controversial early works, "Shot Dog Film" (1977), showcased his willingness to confront societal norms and push the boundaries of acceptable art. However, it was his shift towards public art installations that cemented his reputation as a leading figure in the art world. His public sculptures are infused with humor and critique, drawing on art history, popular culture, and social commentary. Otterness's work is not just visually appealing but also invites viewers to reflect on the underlying messages.
His notable public art installations include "Life Underground" (2004) in New York City's subway system, "The Real World" at Nelson A. Rockefeller Park in Battery Park City, and international commissions in places like Münster, Germany; Toronto, Canada; Seoul, South Korea; and Scheveningen, the Netherlands. These installations showcase Otterness's unique ability to transform public spaces into interactive art experiences.
Otterness's contributions to the art world have been recognized through numerous exhibitions and commissions. His works are included in the collections of prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Guggenheim Museum, and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, among others. In 1994, he was elected a member of the National Academy, further solidifying his status as a significant figure in contemporary art.
Beyond his public sculptures, Otterness has also made notable contributions to cultural events, such as designing a balloon for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. His dedication to making art accessible is evident in his approach to public art, where he strives to speak a common visual language that resonates with a wide audience.
Otterness's work is not only a testament to his artistic talent but also to his commitment to engaging with the public through art. His sculptures serve as a bridge between the art world and the everyday, inviting people to interact with and reflect on the art in their surroundings. As one of America's most prolific public artists, Tom Otterness continues to captivate and inspire with his imaginative and thought-provoking creations.
Tom Otterness Quotes and Sales
of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
If you wish to purchase works by the painter: Contact us
and let us know your request. We will inform you about the
available works. We also offer the possibility to
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