Oscar Murillo's latest exhibition at kurimanzutto gallery in Mexico City is a culmination of 15 years of work that resists linear time. Instead, his practice operates within a non-chronological framework, where multiple layers of meaning coexist and accumulate over time. The term "sedimentation of time" β which opens the press release for the show β encapsulates this concept, suggesting that history is not a straight line but rather a complex web of overlapping structures, behaviors, and events.
Murillo's oeuvre defies traditional notions of time as it brings together works from various periods in his practice. Each piece operates as an index, reflecting his broader body of work and its relationships with different temporalities. This is evident in "Telegram," which serves as a conduit for the viewer to navigate through the artist's thoughts and experiences.
One notable aspect of Murillo's recent work is his relationship with surfaces. He acknowledges that these registers marks and energy but does not engage with the surface in an obsessive or plastic sense. Rather, he explores intensity both physically and psychologically. This is seen in his practice of "Social mapping," where participants can mark surfaces around buildings to record their passing.
Murillo's exhibition also reflects his engagement with contemporary issues such as censorship and turbulence. The installation of a "water well" in the gallery space serves as an encyclopedia containing fragments from his studio over the years, serving as witnesses to his process.
When asked about his market presence at the beginning of his career, Murillo dismisses sensationalist claims. Instead, he emphasizes his continuous focus on experimentation and exploration in his studio.
Differing reception of his work across Latin America versus elsewhere is a notable aspect of Murillo's career. His practice often reflects shifting global orders, as seen in "Social mapping," which aims to document the street as a witness to contemporary issues.
The installation of "The water well" resonates personally with Murillo, serving as an archive of his past work and experiences.
Murillo's oeuvre defies traditional notions of time as it brings together works from various periods in his practice. Each piece operates as an index, reflecting his broader body of work and its relationships with different temporalities. This is evident in "Telegram," which serves as a conduit for the viewer to navigate through the artist's thoughts and experiences.
One notable aspect of Murillo's recent work is his relationship with surfaces. He acknowledges that these registers marks and energy but does not engage with the surface in an obsessive or plastic sense. Rather, he explores intensity both physically and psychologically. This is seen in his practice of "Social mapping," where participants can mark surfaces around buildings to record their passing.
Murillo's exhibition also reflects his engagement with contemporary issues such as censorship and turbulence. The installation of a "water well" in the gallery space serves as an encyclopedia containing fragments from his studio over the years, serving as witnesses to his process.
When asked about his market presence at the beginning of his career, Murillo dismisses sensationalist claims. Instead, he emphasizes his continuous focus on experimentation and exploration in his studio.
Differing reception of his work across Latin America versus elsewhere is a notable aspect of Murillo's career. His practice often reflects shifting global orders, as seen in "Social mapping," which aims to document the street as a witness to contemporary issues.
The installation of "The water well" resonates personally with Murillo, serving as an archive of his past work and experiences.