Marisol: Rediscovering Surrealist Sculptures at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum

The Buffalo AKG Art Museum is hosting a retrospective of Marisol, born María Sol Escobar, a remarkable but often overlooked figure in the Pop Art movement. Marisol, a Venezuelan-American artist, was known for her life-size surrealist sculptures made from wood and casts of her own body. Her art vividly depicted her friends, family, and famous figures, including John F. Kennedy, Pablo Picasso, and Georgia O’Keeffe. The latter was based on photographs taken during Marisol’s visit to New Mexico, capturing the essence of O’Keeffe’s mind and environment.

In 1966, Marisol’s solo exhibition at the Sidney Janis Gallery in New York drew huge crowds, showcasing her unique talent and vision. The event marked a turning point in her career, leading to major commissions, such as a sculpture by Hugh Hefner that graced the cover of TIME magazine. Marisol’s influence expanded internationally when she represented Venezuela at the 1968 Venice Biennale, further cementing her status as a critical voice in contemporary art. Despite her growing fame, Marisol chose a path less traveled by many artists of her time. She prioritized exploration and artistic growth over commercial success, which led her to travel extensively and immerse herself in diverse cultures and experiences.

The late 1970s marked a turning point in Marisol’s interest in portrait sculptures of other artists. This period culminated in her celebrated 1981 exhibition at the Sidney Janis Gallery and was further marked by a major 1991 exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery. During the 1980s, Marisol’s work began to address pressing social issues, reflecting her growing engagement with the world around her. In the 1990s, her sculptures began to depict prominent Native Americans, adding another layer of cultural commentary and historical reflection to her work.

Marisol’s work received renewed attention with a 2014 retrospective at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, which reintroduced her pioneering contributions to a new generation of art lovers. Upon her death in 2016, she left her vast estate to the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, now known as the Buffalo AKG Art Museum. This bequest made the museum the primary repository of Marisol’s work, solidifying her legacy and ensuring that her art continues to inspire and provoke thought.

The current retrospective at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, running through January 6, 2025, offers an in-depth look at Marisol’s artistic journey. This exhibition not only highlights her iconic works, but also provides insight into the personal and cultural influences that shaped her unique perspective. Visitors can expect to see a comprehensive collection that spans her early depictions of notable figures through her later, more introspective works. This retrospective is a must-see for anyone interested in the evolution of modern art and the contributions of artists who dared to challenge and redefine conventional boundaries. Marisol’s work continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of art to reflect and influence society.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Marisol’s visionary sculptures at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the world of one of Pop Art’s most intriguing figures.