Within 1979

Phillip King made "Within" from wood and metal, and it feels like a monumental jigsaw puzzle. King's process is on full display. Look at how the wood is roughly hewn, and the metal is cut into precise geometric forms. There is a real contrast of textures between the raw, organic wood and the smooth, manufactured metal. The grey planes of the metal offset the warmth of the timber. Consider where the wood is still marked with evidence of its origin as a tree. The cuts are rough, but considered. To me, this reminds me of Eva Hesse, and her dedication to process. It feels unresolved, a moment in time, like a conversation overheard. The tension created between the materials asks more questions than it answers. Isn’t that just like art?