Unexpected encounters: Rodin and Sugimoto at the Gagosian, Paris

The work of late 19th century French sculptor Auguste Rodin and contemporary Japanese photographer Hiroshi Sugimoto have met in Rodin-Sugimoto, an unexpected yet visionary exhibition at Paris’ Gagosian Gallery (until 25 March).

Whilst Rodin’s expressive, monumental and visceral sculptures, which are credited with establishing modern sculpture, contrast with Sugimoto’s poised photographs of headless mannequins wearing distinctive 20^th century fashion designs, a closer look reveals that the two have striking similarities. Rodin’s work emphasises flesh, form and surface textures; Sugimoto’s photographs - through the use of bold chiaroscuro - likewise draw attention to the dynamic folds and voluminous forms of the fabrics he photographs, creating a strong sculptural effect.

The Gagosian is juxtaposing three Rodin sculptures – The Three Shades (1880), Monument to Victor Hugo (1897) and The Whistler Muse (1908) – with Stylized Sculpture (2007) by Sugimoto, a series of photographs of garments by renowned couturiers, including Issey Miyake and Yves Saint Laurent, taken from the collection of the Kyoto Costume Institute.

Follow the link to Delood for more images from Rodin-Sugimoto.