Renowned British sculptor Antony Gormley is preparing for a major creative season, marked by two upcoming exhibitions at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp and Galleria Continua in San Gimignano, alongside the release of a new book dedicated to his drawings. Speaking from his David Chipperfield-designed studio in London, the artist reflects on his rigorous daily practice and his background in art history, contrasting his own ascetic, industrial aesthetic with the fleshy opulence of Flemish masters like Rubens.
This profile highlights Gormley’s enduring relevance and his philosophical stance against the modern "art experience" trend, which he views as a distraction. By emphasizing art as a tool for "first-hand being" rather than a mere thrill, Gormley reaffirms his commitment to sculpture as a medium for existential focus. The piece underscores his transition from a young student of archaeology and potential Buddhist monk to one of the most influential figures in contemporary British art.