How Judith Scott escaped a life in institutional isolation to become a great sculptor

Deaf and with Down syndrome, Scott endured horrific conditions in institutions for 35 years. Then, when her twin enrolled her at an arts centre, a remarkable artist emerged

Bundles of fibre wrapped around shapes as if mummifying something sacred. Bicycle wheels tied tightly to a chair with scraps of kaleidoscopically coloured cloth. Supermarket trolleys filled to the brim with ropes, tubes, tassels. Forms evoking wings, animals or body-parts that seem to be conversing with each other. This is the work of Judith Scott.

Scott was fanatical about fibre. She would work on her sculptures for months at a time, going for hours without stopping. She would smack her hands together when she knew a piece was done – and immediately get to work on the next. She wore bright pink felt hats and jumpers, and wrapped her head in vibrantly patterned cloth.

Creative Growth: The House That Art Built is at SFMOMA, San Francisco, until 6 October. Andrew Omoding is at Camden Art Centre, London until 23 June. The Venice Biennale closes on 24 November Continue reading...


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