Juan Betancurth’s stage-like installations have the subdued air of a memorial filled with handmade devices. Drawn from domestic routines and religious rites his site-specific installations offer the viewer a space for experimentation and contemplation. Different meanings are attached to each object, such as restriction, liberation or control. Betancurth wishes to awaken the creative mind within the spectator, propelling the use of his sculptures. Through interaction the performative aspect of his work comes to the fore where each piece individually holds a singular meaning yet collectively constitutes a coherent site-specific installation.
Juan Betancurth is a Colombian born artist (b.1972) living and working in Brooklyn, NY. Selected exhibitions include Dirty Looks On Location, New York, (2012), Sketchy Walk in collaboration with Todd Shalom, The New Museum, New York, (2012), On/Sincerity, Boston University College of Fine Arts, Boston MA (2012), For Faith, Pain or Pleasure, Bulletin Board, CCS BARD College, Red Hook, New York, (2012), Chamber of Delights, El Museo del Barrio Biennial, New York, (2011), Domesticus (2011), Abrons Arts Center, New York and Altar to Myself / Installation, Queens Museum of Art, New York, (2006).
Juan Betancurth was the first New York based artist selected for the Residency Unlimited / IDEAS 40203 residency program. From February 5 till February 17, 2013 Betancurth was in Louisville, KY to create a site-specific installation for IDEAS 40203’s exhibition Wonders of the Mind, which opened February 15, 2013. This project was underwritten by The 1300 Association.
