Mike Kelley and Tony Oursler, Poetics Country

Poetics Country by Mike Kelley and Tony Oursler was published for documenta X in 1997.

“The documenta edition is a print in the manner of a standard American crosswalk sign graffittied with images taken from our notebooks. We are attracted to the sign because of its graphic style, a kind of international sign language which was much used in the late 70s “new wave” graphic design. The bullet holes place the sign within the local “aesthetic” of the Antelope Valley, an area that was the site of our shared rehearsal space.” – Mike Kelley and Tony Oursler

Mike Kelley (1954-2012) was a groundbreaking American artist whose diverse and provocative body of work made a significant impact on contemporary art. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Kelley engaged with a variety of mediums throughout his career, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, performance, and multimedia installations. His artworks delved into complex themes such as childhood, memory, and the darker undercurrents of American culture, making him a key figure in the Neo-Expressionist movement that emerged in Los Angeles during the 1980s. Mike Kelley was renowned for his innovative use of found objects and materials—ranging from stuffed animals to discarded textiles and kitsch collectibles. Through these, he crafted artworks that were both thought-provoking and unsettling, challenging conventional aesthetics and societal norms. His oeuvre explored deep issues of sexuality, trauma, and the human psyche, marked by a psychological depth that was both intense and unflinching. Kelley’s approach often involved a fearless examination of American society’s darker aspects, using his paintings, sculptures, and prints to confront and dissect cultural taboos. This bold exploration helped cement his status as a pivotal figure in contemporary art, whose influence extended far beyond his own works. Despite his untimely death in 2012, Mike Kelley’s legacy continues to resonate within the art community. His unique perspective and method of engaging with complex, often taboo subjects have left an enduring mark, inspiring new generations of artists to explore and question the intricacies of their cultural landscapes. His artwork serves as powerful reminder of art’s ability to provoke thought, question norms, and engage deeply with the complexities of the human condition.

Tony Oursler is a prominent American multimedia artist known for his pioneering work in the field of video and projection art. Born in 1957 in New York City, Oursler’s artistic career has spanned several decades and has consistently pushed the boundaries of visual and technological art forms. Tony Oursler‘s artwork is characterized by his innovative use of video, sculpture, and performance to explore themes related to human psychology, communication, and the intersection of technology and the human experience. He is particularly recognized for his projection installations that often involve the use of distorted faces and disembodied voices to create eerie and thought-provoking narratives. Throughout his career, Tony Oursler has exhibited his artworks in major art institutions worldwide, and his contributions to the contemporary art landscape have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. His explorations into the realm of the subconscious, identity, and the impact of technology on society continue to captivate and challenge audiences, making him a significant figure in the world of multimedia art.

Mike Kelley and Tony Oursler, Poetics Country