Narciso Argüelles’ Disclosures: Concept/OK Residency

Narciso Argülles,Test image for the (Working Title) "Human Project,"
Image for on the scoreboard at OneOK Park for Tulsa Drillers. 

Unexpected reinterpretations of familiar objects and icons characterize Narciso Argüelles’ work.

Since so much of his work hinges on elements of revelation, I almost feel devious giving a preview of some of the pieces Argüelles developed for the Concept/OK: Art in Oklahoma exhibition opening at the Hardesty Arts Center (AHHA) in December. However, these images cannot encapsulate the work, which will be further developed and experience differently in person.

Narciso Argülles, Sketch for "The Trojan Piñata," 

Sculpture with wood, newspaper, tissue, candy, mexican and casters. Approx. 8 feet tall.

Argüelles grew up in Tijuana, Mexico and across the border to San Ysidro, California. He said, “I grew up in a neighborhood full of colors and handmade objects. People were inventive and industrious; they have to be to survive physically and mentally. This non-Western aesthetic became part of me and when I started making art. I couldn’t help but draw from that life. The political and social edge to my art work is also a product of who I am and where I grew up.”

He spent time in Tulsa as he conceptualized this residency project, seeking out perspectives of locals and, specifically, local Hispanic residents. He found continued concerns about our state’s immigration laws and recognition in the broader community.

Narciso Argülles, "Heaven Spots", Site specific piece.
Laser on wall, at Hardesty Center. 2012. Dimensions variable. 

For Concept/OK, Argüelles will present multiple pieces.  An oversize and activated piñata will anchor the appearance of the community studio where he will work regularly throughout the exhibition.

Argüelles will generate several temporary works to permeate the Brady Arts District and more of Tulsa. For instance, a laser will tag the wall of the new AHHA building and will only by visible the night of the patron preview reception.  Also the weekend of the opening, Argüelles photographs will appear on the billboard at the nearby ONEOK baseball stadium.

Expect even more twists in Argüelles’ projects as he finalizes them.

Read more in this Art Focus Oklahoma magazine article about Argüelles.  The Concept/OK: Art in Oklahoma exhibition opens December 16, 1-5 pm at the new Tulsa Arts and Humanities Council’s Hardesty Arts Center. See www.concept-ok.org for more information.