The Cricket Bats Forum

Laura Cooper’s exhibition at RDFA is a stunning exploration of form, fragility, and the delicate balance of the natural world. Her works, ranging from large transparent sculptures to wall pieces in the form of shallow paper mache bowls and ceramic bowls, invite viewers to reflect on the complexity and vulnerability togel online of the environment. Since the 1990s, Cooper’s artistic practice has been deeply influenced by natural forms, and her work continues to evolve in response to the ever-growing awareness of ecological fragility.

At the heart of Cooper’s exhibition is the way she captures the subtle tension between strength and delicacy. The large transparent sculptures dominate the gallery space, yet they convey a sense of precariousness. Light passes through these sculptures in unexpected ways, casting shadows that interact with the surrounding space. The transparency of these pieces is not just an aesthetic choice; it reflects the fragile state of our environment and the ephemeral nature of life itself.

The wall pieces, resembling shallow paper mache bowls, provide a striking contrast to the larger sculptures. These works are intimate and tactile, inviting closer inspection. They are delicate, almost vulnerable, yet they retain a quiet resilience. The choice of paper mache as a medium underscores the transient nature of these forms, echoing the impermanence of the ecosystems that inspire them. Through these works, Cooper encourages viewers to consider how human activity impacts the natural world, and how delicate ecological balances are increasingly at risk.

Ceramic bowls, another central element of the exhibition, bridge the gap between fragility and durability. Ceramic, traditionally associated with permanence and utility, is transformed in Cooper’s hands into a medium of poetic expression. The bowls’ forms are often irregular, echoing shapes found in nature such as shells, seed pods, or water-worn stones. This organic quality reflects Cooper’s long-standing interest in how natural forms evolve and adapt over time. By juxtaposing these ceramic works with the ephemeral paper mache pieces and the transparent sculptures, Cooper creates a dialogue about stability, change, and the impact of human intervention on natural processes.

One of the most compelling aspects of Cooper’s work is her ability to convey environmental fragility without resorting to overt didacticism. The exhibition does not lecture viewers about climate change or environmental destruction; instead, it evokes feelings of sensitivity, care, and attention. The forms themselves carry the message, allowing visitors to draw connections between the delicacy of the sculptures and the vulnerability of the natural world. In doing so, Cooper transforms the gallery into a space of reflection and awareness.

The inspiration for Cooper’s work is rooted in close observation of nature. Since the 1990s, she has been fascinated by organic forms—how plants grow, how water shapes the land, how shells and stones form over time. This fascination is evident in every piece on display at RDFA. The shapes of the sculptures, bowls, and wall pieces are never arbitrary; they are carefully derived from the geometry and flow of natural elements. By translating these observations into art, Cooper bridges the gap between the human experience and the natural environment. Her work becomes a meditation on the beauty, complexity, and fragility of the world around us.

Another theme that runs throughout the exhibition is the interplay of light and shadow. Transparent sculptures interact with the gallery’s lighting to create dynamic patterns that shift with the viewer’s perspective. Shadows fall across walls and floors, emphasizing the ethereal qualities of the work and enhancing the sense of impermanence. Even the paper mache bowls, though more solid in appearance, cast subtle shadows that change depending on where the viewer stands. This careful consideration of light and perception adds depth to the exhibition, reinforcing the connection between form, fragility, and environmental awareness.

The tactile quality of the materials used in Cooper’s exhibition is also significant. Paper mache, ceramic, and transparent resins all offer different sensory experiences, from the smooth coolness of ceramic to the delicate, almost fragile texture of paper mache. By engaging multiple senses, Cooper creates a more immersive experience that allows viewers to connect more deeply with the ideas behind her work. This multisensory approach underscores the notion that the environment is something to be felt, touched, and experienced—not just observed from a distance.

Cooper’s work is also marked by a sense of continuity and evolution. While each piece is unique, there is a consistent dialogue between the different mediums and forms. Large sculptures echo the shapes of smaller bowls, while wall pieces mimic the irregularities and textures found in ceramics. This interconnectedness reflects natural systems themselves, where no element exists in isolation. By mirroring these ecological principles, Cooper emphasizes the interdependence of all forms of life and the importance of maintaining balance.

The exhibition’s impact is heightened by the quiet, contemplative atmosphere of RDFA. The gallery space allows each piece to breathe, giving viewers time to consider the forms, textures, and shadows. The absence of clutter ensures that attention remains focused on the sculptures and bowls, and the natural inspiration behind them. This careful curation allows Cooper’s exploration of fragility and form to resonate more fully, creating an experience that lingers long after visitors leave.

Beyond the visual and tactile experience, Cooper’s exhibition encourages reflection on broader environmental concerns. The fragility and precariousness of the natural world, a recurring theme in her work, are becoming increasingly acute. By drawing attention to these concerns through art rather than statistics or rhetoric, Cooper invites viewers to consider their own relationship with the environment. The exhibition becomes a space for contemplation, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to the world around us.

Laura Cooper’s use of form, light, and material demonstrates a profound sensitivity to both nature and human perception. Her work is not only aesthetically compelling but intellectually engaging, offering insights into the delicate balances that shape life on Earth. Each sculpture and bowl serves as a reminder that beauty and fragility coexist, and that careful observation can reveal deeper truths about the natural world. The exhibition at RDFA thus stands as a testament to Cooper’s enduring fascination with organic forms and her commitment to exploring the complexities of environmental fragility.

In conclusion, Laura Cooper’s exhibition at RDFA is a thought-provoking and visually arresting experience. Through large transparent sculptures, wall pieces in the form of shallow paper mache bowls, and ceramic bowls, she explores themes of fragility, natural form, and environmental awareness. Since the 1990s, her work has been deeply inspired by the organic shapes found in nature, and this exhibition continues that trajectory with skill, sensitivity, and imagination. The interplay of light, material, and form creates a multisensory experience that engages viewers on multiple levels, prompting reflection on the delicate balance of the natural world. Cooper’s work reminds us that art has the power to evoke awareness and empathy, and that through careful observation, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the fragile beauty around us.

For anyone interested in the intersection of art, nature, and environmental consciousness, Laura Cooper’s exhibition at RDFA offers a compelling journey. It is a space where beauty meets contemplation, and where fragile forms speak to the resilience and vulnerability inherent in the natural world. Visitors leave not only with an appreciation for Cooper’s artistry but also with a renewed sense of connection to the environment—a reminder that every shape, shadow, and texture has a story to tell.