Conversation with Peter Downsbrough

In this book-length conversation between art historian and independent curator Marie-Therese Champesme and the Brussels-based conceptualist known for his challenging photography, sculpture and installed works, topics range from Downsbrough’s early and ideal future artworks, interracial dating during the civil rights era, building a house in New Hampshire, the 1970s Belgian art scene and more. Los Angeles conceptual photographer James Welling’s introduction captures the spirit: Downsbrough’s work is catalytic. It changes the place surrounding it, while the objects remain stable, unchanged. The 1960s were a revolutionary time for sculpture. When I look at Peter Downsbrough’s new work today, I am reminded of the openness found in sculpture from that era. For some time, I’ve been of the opinion that sculpture encompasses all the other genres of art making. Said differently: Almost anything could be sculpture.