Exploring Land Art: Teresita Fernández and Robert Smithson Exhibit

A retrospective exhibition at Site Santa Fe features the works of Teresita Fernández and Robert Smithson, highlighting their shared engagement with themes of geology, civilization, and landscape. Smithson, known for his monumental earthworks like the 'Spiral Jetty,' passed away in 1973, while Fernández, born in 1968, has gained recognition for her innovative use of materials such as glass and graphite. The exhibition showcases over 30 pieces from each artist, emphasizing their differing yet complementary approaches to landscape art. Fernández's work often reflects a formal and meditative tone, contrasting with Smithson's more mercurial and intellectual style. Her 'Nocturnal' series, which critiques traditional American landscape painting, draws inspiration from Smithson's own explorations of landscape through his 'pour works.' These pieces, characterized by their chaotic application of materials, serve as a commentary on the natural world and human intervention. The exhibition not only juxtaposes their artistic practices but also addresses the patriarchal legacy within landscape art, which Smithson both represented and challenged. By placing their works side by side, the show invites viewers to consider the evolution of land art and the ways in which both artists engage with the concept of deep time and the cultural implications of landscape. Ultimately, this pairing of two influential figures in land art encourages a dialogue about the relationship between art, nature, and civilization, showcasing how their distinct perspectives contribute to a broader understanding of the landscape genre.