Bald Is Beautiful

Four naked, semi-androgynous figures painted with brightly colored spirals and puzzle shapes now grace the center promenade in the ultra-posh Boca Raton shopping plaza Mizner Park. Nope, they’re not disoriented Langerado festival-goers. These enigmatic figures are part of “Rabarama in the Park,” an exhibit showcasing 14 pieces by Italian sculptor...

By Erica K. Landau

December 18, 2008

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Four naked, semi-androgynous figures painted with brightly colored spirals and puzzle shapes now grace the center promenade in the ultra-posh Boca Raton shopping plaza Mizner Park. Nope, they’re not disoriented Langerado festival-goers. These enigmatic figures are part of “Rabarama in the Park,” an exhibit showcasing 14 pieces by Italian sculptor Paola Epifani. More commonly known as Rabarama, Epifani creates works that combine the existential qualities of Rodin’s sculptures — think The Thinker — with the trippy aesthetic of the Blue Man Group. Think bald, colorful, and engaging, even for those with ADD (you know, art-appreciation deficit disorder).

The patterns imprinted on the sculptures are loaded with symbolism. Puzzles and spirals represent Epifani’s fascination with the human genome and the universality of the human experience. The titles of the pieces — Evolution, Story, Ascend — perpetuate this theme by suggesting some collective process of transformation. While each figure maintains a heavy sense of pensive detachment, the works retain a whimsical element due to their vibrant colors. Sizes range from under eight inches to over ten feet, meriting another dimension of reflection. So put that in your pipe and smoke it Langerado fans.

“Rabarama in the Park” will be on display until April 12 outside on the promenade as well as inside the Boca Raton Museum of Art, located at 501 Plaza Real in Boca Raton. Tickets cost $17 for adults and $6 for students. Call 561-392-2500, or visit bocamuseum.org.
Dec. 28-April 12, 2008

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