Just a few weeks remain to experience 50 years of the internationally renowned sculptor’s evocative works at the place where it all began.
Deborah Butterfield: P.S. These are not horses
For more than 50 years, Deborah Butterfield (’71, M.F.A. ’73) has explored the horse — both its form and presence. And yet, Deborah Butterfield: P.S. These are not horses encourages viewers to understand her sculpture as more than representations of the equine world. Taken from the closing line of a poem by Butterfield’s mentor, William T. Wiley, the title emphasizes the sculptor’s commitment to abstraction and her profound investment in material experimentation. The artist’s first solo museum exhibition in California since 1996, P.S. These are not horses surveys Butterfield’s career from her most recent wildfire sculptures to rare early works including ceramics made while studying at UC Davis.
Curated by Rachel Teagle, founding director
Now extended! On view through June 30, 2024
Artist Talk: Deborah Butterfield
Internationally acclaimed sculptor Deborah Butterfield (’71, M.F.A. ’73) discusses her formative years at UC Davis, her inspirations and mentors, and how her experience in Northern California resonates in her work today.
Learn more
- A Visit to UC Davis' Manetti Shrem Museum – Art Muse LA
- Peerless sculptor takes a star turn at her alma mater – SquareCylinder review
- Horses of a Different Color — Sactown Magazine
- Title inspiration: William T. Wiley poem Re Questrian
- Deborah Butterfield: P.S. These are not horses press release (PDF)