The Willfulness of Objects presents a selection of works from The Bass’ collection, many newly acquired, by artists who utilize found, altered, recycled, or transformed everyday objects as their materials to explore facets of human nature, history, and the surrounding environment. The exhibition includes works by Allora & Calzadilla, Abraham Cruzvillegas, Adrian Villar Rojas, Danh Vō and Haegue Yang, among others.
An essay by Abraham Cruzvillegas lends its title to this exhibition. In the last line, he proclaims, “Everything is alive.” In Cruzvillegas’ text, five short sections provide narrative reminders that the objects and things created and existing alongside us are not stagnant. Objects, like living beings, have complex life cycles and can evolve and change in form over time. Mutations of the item’s shape, use, and value alter the meaning, identity, and personal or cultural significance.