[close] "Working in a pioneering fusion of sculpture and conceptually based performance, Paul McCarthy is one of the most influential figures in contemporary art*however the full range is of his oeuvre is still not fully appreciated or understood. While his architectural installations incorporating video and performance artifacts have received copious critical and curatorial attention during the present decade, few viewers are familiar with the scope of his artistic evolution, or with the impact his works had had on two generations of Los Angeles artists. This catalogue*accompanying McCarthy exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, and the New Museum of Contemporary Art in new York*covers more than 100 works from all areas of his activity, and gives an exemplary insight into McCarthy's works form the early 70s up to the present day. Experts on his work give comprehensive descriptions and analyses of the artist's performances and installations, examine the unique ties between his works and the cinematic arts, and explore the ongoing dialogue between the artistic cultures of New York and Los Angeles, particularly in terms of the development of conceptual art." [close]