Lynda Benglis
USA- Biography of Lynda Benglis
- Experimenting with materials
- Challenging the art system
- Collaboration and video art
- 2010 Retrospective
Biography of Lynda Benglis
Lynda Benglis is an American artist known for her wax paintings and poured latex and polyurethane sculptures. In the 1960s and 1970s, Benglis created vibrant floor sculptures as a response to minimalism, a movement dominated by men that often featured mathematical and technological allusions.
Experimenting with materials
Benglis first introduced a series of latex pour sculptures that adhered to the floor. She then began experimenting with mixing pigment and resin, adding a catalyst and water, resulting in foaming polyurethane that she poured onto predetermined frameworks. These organic volumes had to be made all at once, and Benglis often invited viewers to witness this process.
Challenging the art system
Feeling underrepresented in the male-dominated contemporary art world, Benglis made a notorious statement in 1974 by posing in a series of photographs that parodied the typical male gaze towards women. In the final photograph of the series, she posed nude with a dildo in her hand. This image was published in the November 1974 issue of "Artforum".
Collaboration and video art
In 1971, Benglis began collaborating with Robert Morris, resulting in works such as "Benglis' video Mumble" (1972) and "Morris' Exchange" (1973).
2010 Retrospective
In 2010, a retrospective of Lynda Benglis' work was held, showcasing various aspects of her artistic career.
