Felix Gonzalez-Torres
“Untitled” (L.A.), 1991
Green candies individually wrapped in cellophane, endless supply
Overall dimensions vary with installation
Original weight: 22.7 kg (50 lbs)
Courtesy of the Art Bridges Foundation
Cuban-born, American artist, Felix Gonzales-Torres is known for making artwork out of everyday household items, thus blurring the boundary between life and art. Untitled (L.A.) is one of his many works consisting of candy that the audience is invited to take. As the candy is removed, the pile slowly dwindles. Made in the same year that Gonzales-Torres’ partner, Ross Laycock, died of AIDS-related complications, this could be seen as a metaphor for the deterioration of the body in illness and in death. However, the supply is endless, and the candy is delicious. Rather than focusing on what is lost in death, perhaps this artwork is asking us to meditate on the enrichment and sustenance that memories provide us, long after our loved ones have passed. Gonzales-Torres himself died of AIDS-related complications in 1996, but his generosity of spirit lives on in these individually- wrapped green candies that the world continues to enjoy.
To learn more about Felix Gonzalez-Torres, check out his Wikipedia article.
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