Installation, exhibits explore art of Judy Pfaff

Visitors to the Elvehjem Museum of Art this spring and summer will find a large-scale, site-specific installation by international artist Judy Pfaff.

The Elvehjem is one of the few museums in Wisconsin with the space necessary to house one of Pfaff’s expansive installations.

The installation in Paige Court will be joined by a related presentation of prints, drawings and sculptures in Brittingham Galleries VI, VII and VIII, “The Art of Judy Pfaff,” April 28-Aug. 12.

Although best known for her three-dimensional work, Pfaff began making prints in 1985 and has recently worked at UW–Madison’s Tandem Press. The exhibition includes prints from the Elvehjem’s permanent collection, particularly those created by Pfaff at Tandem Press, and drawings and sculptures on loan, many from the artist.

Although Pfaff has created more than 30 large-scale installations during more than 20 years, most located in major cities, she frequently selects the university setting to create, install and exhibit her work.

The installation permits viewers to see her work from all sides and above, from the upper gallery.

Pfaff did additional drawings on location to clarify her evolving ideas as she responded to the Elvehjem architecture. The complexity of her design presented numerous technical challenges that drew upon the expertise of the Physical Plant, including electrical, machine, sheet metal and campus services.

The museum is open Tuesdays-Fridays 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed Mondays and holidays. Admission is free.