Gabriel Kuri


A cautionary work by Gabriel Kuri will transform public spaces within the suburban area of Oulunsalo. Working with UK-based climate scientist Kevin Anderson (Professor, University of Manchester & Uppsala University), Kuri’s work incorporates the visual language of risk assessment charts to warn of the dangers of climate change.

Man in blue shirt looking to the side.
Gabriel Kuri (photo: Keith Park)

Bio

Gabriel Kuri (b. 1970, Mexico City, currently based in Brussels) directly engages form and material to explore notions of function, systems of exchange, ordering principles and the coding of direct experience into socially convened protocols. Kuri´s sculpture never dissociates physical properties from their semantic implications, nor entertains a categorical distinction between the natural and manufactured realms. His practice involves studio based discipline as well as site specific and site responsive modus, following a variety of techniques and gestures encompassing the direct forging of materials, collaboration with craft and industry, as well as incorporating ready-made objects. Kuri studied at ENAP UNAM Mexico BFA 1992 and a MFA at Goldsmiths, University of London in 1995. 

International exhibitions in public institutions include: Museo JUMEX CDMX (2023), Aranya Art Center Beidaihe China (2023), The Douglas Hyde Gallery Dublin (2020), WIELS Brussels (2109/2020), Oakville Galleries Canada (2018), Sculpturegarden Geneve 2022. Kuri was part of the main group exhibition at the Venice Biennale (2003 and 2011) and solo exhibition ‘before contingency after the fact’, South London Gallery UK (2011). participation in  Desert X 2017,Havana Biennale 2015, Made in LA Hammer Museum 2104, Setouchi Triennale Japan 2010, Berlin Biennale 2008 and Unmonumental New Museum NYC 2007.

Snowy village landscape at dusk with church.
Suburban area in Oulunsalo (photo: Harri Tarvainen)
Abstract metal and rock sculptures on concrete floor.
Kuri’s earlier work ‘Preemptive Forms’, 2023 (courtesy of the Artist)

The exact locations of the works will be announced later. Climate Clock public art trail will launch in June 2026.