This fall, New York-based artist Loren Madsen will present a series of sculptures that portray statistical data as three-dimensional objects. Although his laminated wood shapes resemble the abstract, biomorphic shapes - cones, loops, and arcs - of sculptors like Jean Arp or Isamu Noguchi, Madsen's works are actually multi-dimensional graphs plotting complex historical trends such as cost-of-living indexes, public opinion polls, and homicide and execution rates. For MCASD Downtown, Madsen presents several works modeling information about important changes in contemporary life in the United States. By giving concrete, compelling form to the information we are accustomed to receiving as dry numbers and percentages, Madsen challenges us to visualize and understand broad social developments in new ways.

This exhibition is made possible by generous support to MCASD's Annual Fund, as well as by grants from the City of San Diego's Commission for Arts and Culture, and the California Arts Council.