Paul McCarthy
Mother Pig, Shushi Gallery, San Diego Perforance
1983, 1995
Mother Pig, Shushi Gallery, San Diego Performance
Paul McCarthy’s Mother Pig performance at Shushi Gallery in 1983 was the first time he used a set, a practice that came to characterize his later works. Here, McCarthy squirts liquid out of a bottle held near his crotch onto a stuffed animal in the shape of a lion. The costuming, materials and simulated bodily functions frequently appear in McCarthy’s work, which often disturbingly juxtaposes visceral and startling manipulation of the body with the cheerful artifacts of popular consumer culture.
??Paul McCarthy is known for his transgressive performance art pieces that often challenge social conventions. Undoubtedly one of the main figures in the West Coast contemporary art scene, McCarthy uses various forms from pop culture as source material to cast a critical look at American society and consumerism. His provocative works are infused with a particularly poignant sense of humor, investigating the intricacies of human psychology and exposing the absurdities and darker aspects of consumer culture. McCarthy's diverse body of work spans performance, sculpture, video, and installation, often blending grotesque imagery with satirical commentary. His art provokes strong reactions, compelling audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about societal norms and the human condition. Over his prolific career, McCarthy has solidified his reputation as a fearless and influential figure in contemporary art, continually pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and cultural critique.