Soundsuit
Soundsuit
Artist
Nick Cave
(born 1959)
Date2010
MediumAppliquéd found knitted and crocheted fabric, metal armature, and painted metal and wood toys
Dimensions97 x 48 x 42 in. (246.4 x 121.9 x 106.7 cm)
ClassificationsMixed Media
Credit LineCrystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas, 2010.60
Accession number
2010.60
On View
Not on viewCollections
Label TextSince the mid-twentieth century, the number of dance styles in the United States has accelerated dramatically, inspiring new collaborations between the art and dance worlds. Nick Cave is both dancer and artist, and this sculpture is a result of the marriage of his two roles. This "Soundsuit" is more than a costume deisgned for a performance; it is an empty vessel charged with potential energy.
When worn, the movement of the wearer causes the suit to produce its own sounds as the elements are activated. This, in turn directs the dancer on how to move. Dancer and artwork are two parts of a whole–each informs the other in order to harness the spirit of dance.
