The Weight of Memory | William Catling: A Retrospective

January 15–April 17, 2022

“Catling’s wonderfully down-to-earth works expand our capacity to understand that our bodies are vehicles for understanding—not merely tools for physical transport, but occasions for journeys that take us far beyond the literal distances we actually travel, into dimensions commonly referred to as internal, subjective, poetic, existential, or spiritual.” 

—Los Angeles Art Critic David Pagel

Drawn from a body of work decades in the making, William Catling’s mid-career retrospective is fueled by faith and a deep understanding of our universal need to find meaning within our lives. 

At first glance, Catling’s work appears dark and heavy, but with patience the viewer will find that soon gives way to a powerful statement on the human condition, full of light and possibility. 

Built with layers of clay, sometimes mixing bronze or branches, Catling’s work is a visual manifestation of human form and spirit.

Image: William Catling, NSEW (lost compass of the soul)

Exhibit-Related Events

Opening Reception

Please join us for the Opening Reception of The Weight of Memory on Saturday, February 5, 2022, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Riverside Art Museum.

Proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 is required. “Fully vaccinated” means the event is at least 14 days after a participant’s final vaccine dose. To enter the event, participants must bring  proof of vaccination, either a physical vaccination card, a picture of a vaccination card, or a digital vaccination record. Most California residents may request a digital vaccination record at myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov. Anyone 12 and over without proof of being fully vaccinated must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (3 days) prior to entering the event. Masks are also required at all times indoors, except when eating, drinking, or actively speaking to a group as part of a presentation for all patrons and visitors, regardless of vaccination status, at the Riverside Art Museum.

This exhibition is sponsored by:

Betty & Walter Parks