Go see – Boston: ‘Damian Ortega: Do It Yourself’ at the Institute of Contemporary Art through Jan 18, 2010

October 21st, 2009


Damian Ortega, “Cosmic Thing” (2002). Via Institute of Contemporary Art.

On view now until January 18, 2010, the Institute of Contemporary Art is hosting the first-ever survey of Mexican artist Damian Ortega’s work. The exhibition will include selections of Ortega’s sculptures, installations, photographs, and videos with a focus on the breadth of his artistic output over time.


Damian Ortega exhibit at the ICA via NECN(Click to view video on NECN site)

More text and pictures after the jump…


Damian Ortega, “False Movement” (1999). Via Institute of Contemporary Art.


Damian Ortega, “120 Days” (2002). Via Institute of Contemporary Art.

Ortega’s work is known for its movement, rearrangement, and mid-air suspensions. The Institute of Contemporary Art describes Ortega’s art as “calling attention to the dynamism of the world around us and the hidden poetry in the everyday.” Using unexpected and oftentimes unpredictable materials like Coca-Cola bottles, tortillas, bricks, antique tools, and even a Volkswagen Beetle, Ortega takes extreme pains to showcase his artwork in a playful, expressive, and imaginative way.


Damian Ortega, “Elote Clasificado” (2005). Via Institute of Contemporary Art.


Damian Ortega, “Skin” (2006-2007). Via Institute of Contemporary Art.

Damian Ortega was born in 1967 in Mexico City. He is widely considered to be one of today’s leading Mexican artists. From studying with fellow artist Gabriel Orozco in the late 1980s, Ortega began to focus specifically on form and shape in photography and sculpture. Ortega’s work can be found worldwide in a wide range of public and private collections. Ortega currently works and lives in Berlin and Mexico City.


Damian Ortega, “Autoconstruction, Bridges and Dams” (1997). Via Institute of Contemporary Art.


Damian Ortega, “Nine Types of Terrain” (2007). Via Institute of Contemporary Art.


Damian Ortega, “Selection from Belo Horizonte Project” (2004). Via Institute of Contemporary Art.

Related Links:
Damian Ortega: Do it Yourself
[ICA Boston]
The Sum of its Parts
[The Boston Globe]
“Do It Yourself” With No Directions [The Boston Globe]
Damian Ortega Exhibit at the ICA is a Puzzler [Taunton Daily Gazette]