Miami-based artist Christopher Carter has created an elaborate new base that has inspired his latest exhibition. Set in the city’s North Wynwood neighbourhood, the house has been the source behind the show at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale named ‘The Carter Project’, which offers the opportunity for visitors to experience the artist’s studio and exhibition space, as well as his new, ecologically driven home.
Conceived as a project in 2016 and completed during the pandemic, the structure is substantial and immersive, set among green foliage and featuring open spaces, high ceilings and generous openings – reminiscent of modernist architecture in Florida. Carter, who worked with architect Gary Williams on the project, describes it as ‘the largest, most comprehensive functional structure I ever dreamed to make’. The volumes reflects the artist’s ideal use of space, referencing notions of privacy, environmental polution, and solitude – as well as optimism and growth.
The artist is known for his use of recycled materials. Woods, metals, glass, resins and other discarded objects have in the past become key components in his work. His approach challenges traditional usage and proposes innovative and unexpected ways of reusing what are often perceived as pretty standard building materials.
As well as completed works, the exhibition displays will include videos, photography, drawings, a 3D-printed model and an augmented reality component.
‘The result is a consistent and direct design that displays a balance between form and function,’ say the organisers. ‘The live/work/exhibition space reflects Carter’s connections to Afrofuturism and the Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic, which embraces imperfection. Its design evokes a Northern California loft ideal,’ they add, and its ‘carbon footprint-reducing structures were constructed with industrial and reclaimed materials, including six used shipping containers that house some living areas and art production studios.’ §
