RENO.- Fletcher Benton: The Artist’s Studio explores the unique attitudes and methods that Benton, a world-renowned kinetic and constructivist sculptor, applies to his work. This experiential and interactive exhibition looks at the inspirations, processes, toys and tools that Benton uses to create his work, and provides profound insight into the artistic practice of one of the most important American sculptors of the twentieth century.

Benton creates asymmetrical works that maintain a balance against improbable odds. He juxtaposes symmetry and asymmetry, order and chance, reason and randomness. Working from a palette of classical forms, Benton composes small-scale models, or maquettes, of potential works. After contemplating these varied maquettes, he chooses one or more to be fabricated on the monumental scale.

This exhibition recreates Benton’s studio with the images, textures and inspirations that constitute his working environment. The exhibition, conceived by Benton himself, provides a rare opportunity to see the studio — a typically private space — through the artist’s eyes.

Born in Jackson, Ohio, Fletcher Benton is considered one of the pioneers of kinetic sculpture. He began his career as a sign painter, which gave him a sense of organization and discipline.

In 1956, he earned a BFA from Miami University in Ohio, and then in 1959, teaching at the California College of Arts and Crafts, began a career of teaching and sculpting. From 1964 to 1967, he was an instructor at the San Francisco Art Institute, and from 1968, he has been a professor at San Jose State University.