Labels

Math Bass "Parentheses" to MOCA

Math Bass, Full Body Parentheses, 2024. MOCA. Photo: Jeff McLane
MOCA has bought a Math Bass concrete sculpture, Full Body Parentheses. The two-part concrete-coated foam and fiberglass piece, 7 ft. high, is based on the form of a vintage lamp the artist found in a Palm Springs thrift shop. It was created for a 2024 survey at the Lumber Room, Portland, and was shown at Vielmetter gallery, Los Angeles. 

Full Body Parentheses becomes the third Math Bass work in the MOCA collection. Bass has also been visible at the Hammer Museum, participating in the 2012 "Made in L.A." Biennale and a 2018 lobby mural commission.
Installation view of Math Bass works at the Lumber Room, 2024


Email Post
Labels:

Comments

Jose 813 said…
I know the Modeline lamp! Wish I could post a picture of it for your readers.
January 2, 2026 at 3:13 PM
William Poundstone said…
It definitely does resemble a Modeline lamp base. But the Lumber Room press release says it's based on "a lamp from a thrift store that appeared to be handmade, from the 60s or 70s." Maybe someone did a handmade knockoff of the Modeline?
January 2, 2026 at 3:45 PM
Ted Gallagher NYC said…
Re "... a handmade knockoff of the Modeline?": Yes, possibly. Or, it was the real deal.
I went to a second-hand clothing store over Christmas. The $150. full-length men's coat was Loro Piana, appeared never worn. Not my size, but I held it in my hands and called my nephew. Fit him like a glove. A $10,000. extra Christmas present.
Yes, Virginia, there really is a Santa.
January 2, 2026 at 4:43 PM
Post a Comment