Laura Bruce: Sounds that clouds make

More about the book

In complex and varied work largely accomplished over the past 20 years while she has lived as an American in Berlin, Laura Bruce has explored and excelled at paintings, sculptures, videos and performances. Over the past several years large black and white graphite drawings on paper have also become an important part of her oeuvre. Bruce’s 21st century drawings – which have been exhibited widely to considerable acclaim – have echoes of 19th century European Romantic painting and Hudson River School painting in the US. While intently focusing on drawing, Bruce has also expanded her oeuvre to include striking architectural installations/interventions. Laura Bruce is also an accomplished singer and soulful interpreter of American country music. Her drawing and sound installation Goodbye is Half the Words You Know (2008-2012) consists of ten portraits of esteemed country singers coupled with Dangerpony songs (which you hear on headphones), with Bruce singing lead. While accomplished in different mediums and painstakingly made, Bruce’s works function as transportive forces, conjuring moments of revelation and surprise when one’s whole orientation is suddenly altered, challenged, and intensified.