Mim Scala: In Motion at Eleven

A first for the author, producer, theatrical agent and artist, Mim Scala is presented by Eleven gallery in his premier solo exhibition. The theme and title of the show In Motion is for the most part evident in the animal forms Scala has rendered in bronze. With the lush green backdrop of Harry Cory Right’s photographic series from 2006 occupying the walls, Scala’s eight individual works occupy the intimate gallery space.

His creative process begins with in-depth study of images, which later inform a wire framework to be build upon with French wax. The use of the wax results in a tactile sculpture and juxtaposes the solidity of the bronze with the evidence of the artist’s decisive hand. Captured in moments of movement both subtle and grand Scala’s proximity to horses in his domestic life and interest in the power of other animals is clearly manifest in his pieces.

While they are good depictions of the different animals they are lyrical and loose about anatomical accuracy. The focus to clearly convey action is apparent in the rough and sometimes crude finish in the muscles or hairs of the subjects. Coursing Hound (2014) is particularly successful as its nimble and delicate structure is poised and loaded with energy of the primal pursuit it portrays. Stockier compositions depicting a bucking bull El Toro (2014) and Working Horse (2014) have thicker, slower and richer qualities.

Scala’s artistic language adds to the individual pieces and gives them a simple charm. Their small scale renders them familiar yet fairly unremarkable. While there is apparent skill in Scala’s execution, the subjects and themes are classic but for that reason fairly unexciting. They are objects to be enjoyed, but they are not pushing the boundaries of sculpture. In their own way they are refreshingly unconscious and promise to be no more that what they are: straightforward products of Scala’s current particular interests.

Lauren Pennycott

In Motion is at Eleven until 14^th November 2014, for further information visit here.