Cornelia Parker
Cornelia Parker: A Pioneering Artist of Installation and Conceptual Art
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Cornelia Parker is a British artist known for her innovative installations that often transform everyday objects into powerful statements on the human condition. Born 1956, she is commonly referred to as Cornelia Parker or C.P.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: 30 March 1956
Status: Alive
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: British
Profession: Artist, Sculptor, Installation Artist, Conceptual Artist
Early Life and Background
Cornelia Parker was born in Cheshire, England. Her interest in art began at a young age, with her father being an amateur artist himself. After completing her education, she attended the University of London's Goldsmiths College (now part of the University of London), where she earned her Master's degree in 1982.
Major Accomplishments
Parker's work has been recognized globally for its thought-provoking nature and its ability to evoke strong emotions. She was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in 2006 for her contributions to art. Her solo exhibitions have been held at prominent museums such as Tate Britain, the Walker Art Gallery, and the Moderna Museet.
Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works include:
One Million Years B.C. (1999): A 15-ton concrete sphere dropped from a helicopter onto the ground.
The Maybe (1995): An empty pedestal with a velvet-covered chair, challenging viewers' perceptions of art.
* Unmade Bed (2007): A bed left unmade as part of Parker's exploration of domesticity and chaos.
Impact and Legacy
Cornelia Parker has inspired generations of artists with her innovative approach to conceptual art. Her ability to transform everyday objects into powerful statements on the human condition has made her a leading figure in contemporary art. The artist's thought-provoking works continue to evoke strong emotions, challenging viewers' perceptions and encouraging them to think critically about their surroundings.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Cornelia Parker is widely quoted and remembered for her groundbreaking installations that challenge the viewer's perception of reality. Her ability to transform everyday objects into powerful statements on the human condition has made a lasting impact on contemporary art, inspiring future generations of artists to push the boundaries of creativity.
With over four decades of experience in the art world, Cornelia Parker continues to create thought-provoking installations that challenge and inspire viewers from around the globe. Her legacy is one of innovation and creativity, cementing her place as a leading figure in contemporary art.
Quotes by Cornelia Parker
I didn't make any money out of my art until I was in my 40s, but it preserved my sanity and my freedom.
I was very physical as a child - we lived on a smallholding, and I was always outside making mud pies or building structures up trees.
Our cultural industries are our biggest export, our biggest manufacturing base. Every pound spent on art education brings disproportionately large returns. It's the biggest bang for our buck. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. In fact, the more you put in, the greater the successes for the U.K. economy.
If it is good enough for Prince William and Kate, why is studying art history not good enough for the masses?
Who thought it would be a good idea to undermine art in the school curriculum? Who thought studying the history of our visual culture was a waste of time? Who thought that only private schools should have that privilege? Was it someone who said we don't need experts?
I'm from a working-class background - I had free school meals all my life and then spent six years in art school.
I was selling bric-a-brac in Portobello and Camden Market. I love objects. But I was embarrassed by the idea of collecting, so I began using these things in my art.
I think it's quite obvious my work is made by a woman, because I have never wanted to make anything that is not ephemeral. But I definitely want to be thought of as an artist first.
I went to a quite macho art school in the 1970s, and while everyone was making hulking big sculptures, I was making things out of bits of paper.