Nuclear Temple 31

In his multifaceted sculptural work, Thomas Schütte succeeds in constantly generating new approaches and forms. He is preoccupied with the exploration of architecture, history and the culture of remembrance – as in the works presented at Blickachsen 14: the two identical sculptures “Tribute to Moondog” are a homage to the eccentric composer and musician Louis Thomas Hardin (1916-1999), who named himself “Moondog” after his guide dog. The work breaks with the convention of the commemorative bust by not depicting the outward appearance of the person portrayed, but here instead visualizing his given name. The steel sculpture “Nuclear Temple” is classified by the artist himself as an “architectural model”. In fact, the size of the archways and the niches above them suggest a possible function as a model for an octagonal domed building. The centre of the three-metre-high sculpture is illuminated by a light opening at the highest point of the dome.
Thomas Schütte, who was already represented in Blickachsen 13, studied at the Düsseldorf Art Academy. Exhibitions dedicated to him have been held at prestigious institutions around the world. A multiple documenta participant, he was awarded the Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale in 2005.