David R. Harper: Zodiac

The word zodiac is used to describe an astrological system or, perhaps more often in popular context, the twelve regions that make up the system and that are identified as “signs.” These signs, associated with different animals or symbols, are also linked to personality traits and the specific day someone was born.

David R. Harper: Zodiac features a series of sculptural works based on the signs of the zodiac. Harper uses imagery and metaphor to encourage people to think about how an object’s meaning can change based on who is interacting with it. Further, he hopes viewers will reflect on their own selves, in his words: “to see themselves, based on their zodiac characteristics, in some way in the work.”

This exhibition at RAM marks the first time the Zodiac series has been shown together. Originally commissioned by the Gardiner Museum in Toronto, the twelve works/installations were shown spread throughout their galleries and in relation to pieces in their permanent collection. Per direction of the artist, RAM is able to show the work as a whole or broken down into various groups or individual works.

David R. Harper, Aquarius from the Zodiac Series, 2018, Resin, rubber coating, steel, plaster, India ink, and fireball pearls, 36 x 11 x 24 inches, Racine Art Museum, Gift of the Kohler Foundation, Inc. Photography: Rich Maciejewski