One of my sculpture idols is Martin Puryear. It was with joy and excitement I viewed his exhibition at The Art Institute of Chicago. Entitled Martin Puryear: Multiple Dimensions, the exhibition shows over 100 drawings and 12 sculptures, many of which has never been seen before. His transformative works show mastery of craft and creative exploration across many ideas. Through May 1, 2016 it is a must-see before it closes!

Martin Puryear “Untitled” 1982 Maple sapling, pearwood, and yellow cedar. The Art Institute of Chicago. Photo by Erin K. Hylton

Martin Puryear “Head” 1965 Woodcut in black with brush and brown wash on tan wove paper The Art Institute of Chicago. Photo by Erin K. Hylton

Martin Puryear “Gbago” 1966 Drypoint on ivory wove paper The Art Institute of Chicago. Photo by Erin K. Hylton

Martin Puryear “Untitled” 1966 Woodblock The Art Institute of Chicago. Photo by Erin K. Hylton

Martin Puryear “Sanctuary” 1982 Pine, maple and cherry The Art Institute of Chicago. Photo by Erin K. Hylton

Martin Puryear “Untitled (LA MoCA portfolio) 1999 Hard and soft ground etching and aquatint, on cream Japanese paper, laid down on white wove paper (chine colie) The Art Institute of Chicago. Photo by Erin K. Hylton

Martin Puryear “Face Down” 2008 White bronze The Art Institute of Chicago. Photo by Erin K. Hylton

Martin Puryear “Multiple Dimensions Exhibition” The Art Institute of Chicago. Photo by Erin K. Hylton