Ricky Swallow

Australian sculptor Ricky Swallow is know for his detailed, object-based work that elevates the texture, form and symbolism of the everyday. Using representation as both an inspiration and a catalyst, Swallow collects a variety of found objects—cardboard tubes, clocks, targets and cups—which then act as molds, constructed forms of vessels for his ceramic, wood and bronze pieces. The transformation of materiality lies at the foundation of Swallow’s practice, with specific reference to Modernism, Native American folk art and classical form. Combing the flea markets near his Los Angles home, Swallow seeks out objects that he refers to as “make-dos,” antiques which have been “creatively repaired or adapted.”

Swallow’s exhibition history includes the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, Australia, University of Queensland Art Museum, Brisbane, Australia, Marc Foxx Gallery, Los Angeles, Kunsthalle Vienna, and PS1/MoMA, New York, among others. He has had group exhibitions at the Hammer Museum, Los Angeles, Heide Museum of Art, Melbourne, Australia, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Santa Barbara, The Hepworth Wakefield, UK, Museum of Art and Design, New York, Aspen Art Museum, Aspen, The Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston, and Tate Liverpool, Liverpool, England. He was the exhibited artist for the Australian Pavilion in the 2005 Venice Biennale, and was includes in the 2014 Whitney Biennial at the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York.