“Seated Stag” (2023), carpet and mixed media, 39 1/2 x 43 x 18 1/2 inches. All images © Debbie Lawson, courtesy of Sargents Daughters, shared with permission
Rising from the plush motifs of woven rugs, the wildlife that emerge from Debbie Lawson’s Kent studio are camouflaged by domesticity. The artist (previously) is known for her sculptures cloaked in ornate carpets, the latest of which are on view now at Sargents Daughters for her solo exhibition Hidden Territories.
Elaborate Persian patterns obscure life-sized stags, lions, and bears, that, while distinct in form, lose their naturalistic qualities under the posh floor coverings. Rather than simply cloak each animal in fabric, Lawson leaves the common rectangular rug shape around each creature, further obscuring the boundary between inanimate, human-made decoration and natural life.
Hidden Territories continues in New York City through March 9. Peek into Lawson’s studio and view more of her work on her website and Instagram.
“White Lion” (2023), carpet and mixed media, 47 x 34 x 19 inches
“Bear Cartouche” (2023), carpet and mixed-media, 57 1/8 x 38 1/4 x 19 3/4 inches
“Red Lion” (2023), carpet and mixed media, 37 x 55 x 12 inches
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