Urs Fischer: the man behind the Lamp/Bear

Ever wondered who came up with that controversial sculpture that's become such a hot topic of campus conversation, Untitled Lamp/Bear? The answer would be artist Urs Fischer, and last week he gave a lecture at Brown. Recognizing his talk as an opportunity to gain some understanding of the mysterious mind behind the giant blue bear statue, I decided I had to attend. Before the lecture, I'd only knew him as the creator of Blueno, but after hearing him speak, I now know a bit more about his life and artistic process.Here are some take-aways:

1. He mentioned art being a "medium, a container of information" and that "artwork reflects what's around it."
2. He enjoys looking work by artists that he doesn't like.
3. "Sometimes the artist becomes so much bigger than the art."
4. He wonders how cave paintings began, because "why not just look at the deer instead of painting it?"
5. "Why add more [artwork] to the world?"
6. He thinks that the appeal of taking a photo with a camera may have something to do with the clicking noise that the camera makes.
7. He knows that the Lamp/Bear is a controversial piece.

 Fischer has created various other pieces that have gained international recognition, like Untitled (Bread House) and Bad Timing, Lamb Chop!. Fischer's works range from surreal mashups of human anatomy to vibrant speckled drawings, and they're fun. Take a look and get to know Urs Fischer beyond Lamp/Bear. Images via, via, and via.