![Burden_webheader_1920x387](http://oma-online.org/wp-content/plugins/revslider/public/assets/assets/dummy.png)
Robert Xavier burden: relics
february 18–June 4, 2023
In Honor and Memory of Curator Bob Self
“In 2006 I began a series of large-scale oil paintings depicting the small action figures that I played with as a boy. Initially these figures were set against fabric, wallpaper, and rug patterns from my childhood home. Over the years the decorative motifs have become more complex and derived from historical references, often incorporating toys from various generations, but the motivation behind the work remains the same. I am inspired by the amorphous line that is drawn between imagination and reality, childhood wonder and adult practicality, and the ineffability of what can turn a piece of plastic into an almost talismanic object. There is an obvious irony in spending thousands of hours to create a single painting that glorifies a cheap, mass-produced toy. And while that irony could reflect issues of commodity fetishism, consumer addiction, Peter Pan Syndrome or even shallow idolatry, I want these paintings to represent something positive in my life. Although it was sheltered and naïve, there was a freedom in my childhood. It was free from the politics of race and sex and religion. It was free from the weight of history. It was free from rhetoric and paranoia, shame and regret, cynicism and despair. There is nothing profound about commenting on the minor tragedy of losing one's innocence, or the struggle to maintain one's idealism. I just want to renew my faded sense of awe.”
-Robert Xavier Burden
The Elephant Painting, 2019. Oil on canvas, 144" x 84".
This painting took nearly 1400 hours of studio time spread out over 18 months. It depicts Billy, the iconic Asian elephant of the Los Angeles Zoo surrounded by over 50 different elephant-related toys, one Cyclops, one elephant skull and one statue of Ganesh. The pattern is an altered version of a 17th century French tapestry.
EXHIBITION CELEBRATION
Celebrate with us on March 18, 2023
Due to unforeseen circumstances, the celebration event for this exhibition has been changed from the originally scheduled date and will now be held on March 18, 2023.
LEARN MORE
Visit the artist’s website and Instagram page
If you would like to learn more about the artwork, including if the artist has work available to purchase, please email exhibitions@oma-online.org.