Diane Simpson’s Unique Sculptural Creations Take Chicago by Storm
Diane Simpson’s sculptures are a sight to behold, unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Chicagoans have the opportunity to witness her groundbreaking work firsthand at the Art Institute of Chicago and Corbett vs. Dempsey gallery. Simpson’s sculptures defy traditional notions of three-dimensional art, challenging viewers to see beyond the ordinary.
Born in Joliet in 1935, Simpson has been honing her craft for decades. Despite starting late in the art world, she has made significant strides in recent years, with her work being featured in prestigious exhibitions and gaining international recognition. Simpson’s process starts with isometric projection, a drawing technique that maintains consistent angles and parallels. She then translates these drawings into three-dimensional sculptures, creating pieces that defy logic and spatial norms.
Simpson’s sculptures are a blend of inspiration from everyday objects like samurai armor and chairs, combined with unconventional materials such as MDF, aluminum, and fiberglass screening. Her meticulous attention to detail and inventive use of materials have resulted in a body of work that is both visually striking and conceptually intriguing.
In a recent exhibition at Corbett vs. Dempsey gallery, Simpson showcased two of her captivating sculptures. “Thinly Veiled” (1985) and “Neckline – extended” (2011) are part of series inspired by historical European dress and clothing accessories. These sculptures play with the idea of form and function, blurring the lines between fashion and architecture.
Simpson’s latest exhibition, “Good for Future,” features three new commissions displayed on the rooftop terrace of the Art Institute of Chicago. These sculptures, painted in alternating shades of periwinkle, sky blue, and olive, continue Simpson’s exploration of furniture and architectural detailing. The pieces interact with the Chicago skyline, inviting viewers to see familiar cityscapes in a new light.
Overall, Simpson’s work challenges traditional notions of sculpture and pushes the boundaries of what is possible in three-dimensional art. Her unique approach to materials and form have garnered her critical acclaim and established her as a groundbreaking artist in the contemporary art world. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Diane Simpson’s extraordinary sculptures in person in Chicago.
