Sanford Biggers, “Constellation,” 2009, Steel, Plexiglas, LED\u@019s, Zoopoxy, cotton quilt, original printed cotton tile. Dimensions variable, Installation at Harvard University. Courtesy the Artist and Michael Klein Arts, New York, N.Y.Sanford Biggers, “Smirk,” 2009 Aluminum, plexiglas, LEDs, timer. 30 x 26.5 x 10.5 in. Ed. 3 + AP. Courtesy the Artist and Michael Klein Arts, New York, N.Y.Quiet and thoughtful in tone, multidisciplinary artist Sanford Biggers says a lot in his sit-down interview, but even more in his art. Large trees sprout from disco floors and through pianos. Huge mandalas quoting Buddhism double as floors for break-dancing competitions. This is what Biggers loves to do — take culturally loaded objects (lawn jockeys, Buddhas) and “bling” them out in a similar way.
His re-appropriations aren’t obscure, and the commonplace nature of many objects in his art provokes and amuses upon first sight. A chance to sample Biggers’ most recent work is happening this month, with a new exhibition already open at Contemporary Arts Forum, part of a series of events stretching into April that intend to introduce the artist to a larger audience.
