“After Nature.” New Museum. New Museum Of Contemporary Art, n.d. Web. 24 Aug. 2014.
http://archive.newmuseum.org/index.php/Detail/Occurrence/Show/occurrence_id/928
In 2008, the New Museum of New York City displayed a collection of post-apocalyptic daydreams. Titled “After Nature,” the exhibition explored what the aftermath of looming environmental disasters might look like, and what ecosystems might grow in their wake. With over ninety pieces of art, “After Nature” contained floating figures, disembodied heads, a horse half-encased in a wall. Together, the diverse array of artists created scenes from “an extinct world that strangely resembles our own.”
The overall effect is haunting in its stillness, an eerie construction of familiarity and oddity. I think this immersive type of exhibition is incredibly successful at inspiring change. The room issues visitors a wake up call, a time-machine transportation. The depictions give them an opportunity to walk within the possible future, then let them leave with the chance to change it.
Further reading:
