Steve Novick: “Approximation” · Contemporary Sculpture at the Art Complex Museum, Duxbury

Regarding the exhibition theme, Novick writes, “Approximation is the mirror image of abstraction. While the former involves ‘drawing near to‘, the latter concerns ‘drawing away from’. In both instances, decisions are made as to what remains, and what is removed—qualities stated and implied, visible and invisible. Determining which aspects to approach, and which to leave behind, defines one’s sensibility. The works in this show present approximations and abstractions of nature and of culture, and—in some instances, inevitably—places where those spheres intersect. It is possible to represent nature only through culture while—like any human activity—culture must draw on the natural world for sustenance.”

Novick’s influences—cartoons, folk art, surrealism, minimalism—are evident in the work’s straightforward use of materials, simplicity of form, anthropomorphism, and sense of humor. Themes include the construction of language and symbols (visual and otherwise), nostalgia, and obsolescence. According to the artist, “My process involves assembling found objects and materials. Collecting things—from thrift stores, yard sales, and flea markets—is an important facet of my work. In this phase, I often will undertake the use of a new item or form, or realize the solution to a previously intractable problem. Although the physical resolution of my sculptures may be quick, the ideas behind them tend to gestate slowly. Simple items, and parts of more complex ones, are fitted together via a process of trial, error, and serendipity. Cleaning, polishing, and refinishing aside, nearly all objects and materials are used as-is.”