We’re struck by the monumental scale and startling realism of Ron Mueck’s In bed 2005 who has been carefully composed so that the position of her body and facial expression suggest a range of possible emotional states. While the viewer may at first be taken aback by the monumental scale of the work, this is ultimately tempered by the decidedly familiar and domestic nature of the subject, then — almost voyeuristically — we are compelled to move closer to inspect her reclined position as she provides an ideal vantage point from which a standing viewer can study the detailed texture of the figure’s hair, her translucent skin, and almost pulsing veins. Stepping back, her apprehensive facial expression and seemingly vulnerable state of being come into focus and we can imagine a range of possible emotional states.

Why is this woman taking refuge in bed? What is it about the world around her that is causing such unease? As a reflection on the human condition, In bed has a particular resonance, while viewers may be taken aback by the scale and painstaking detail of the sculpture, the naturalism of the figure’s expression captures a small, everyday moment with which we can identify and empathise.

Ron Mueck, England b.1958 / In bed 2005 / Mixed media / 161.9 x 649.9 x 395cm / Purchased 2008. QAG Foundation / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art / © Ron Mueck / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA

Ron Mueck, England b.1958 / In bed 2005 / Mixed media / 161.9 x 649.9 x 395cm / Purchased 2008. QAG Foundation / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art / © Ron Mueck / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA / View full image

Mueck's sculptures invite us to reflect on universal emotions, the artist uses his remarkable craftsmanship to arrest his subjects in psychologically and physically exposed states. By manipulating the scale of his figures, and paying meticulous attention to their expression, pose and gestures, Mueck magnifies the inner lives of ordinary people in these frozen portraits.

With one hand cradling her face, partially covering her mouth as she looks distractedly upwards into the distance, the other resting on her chest, and her knees drawn up under the bedcovers, the artist offers no clues as to the subject’s circumstances or preoccupations.

Mueck is widely recognised as among the most significant contemporary artists working in a hyperrealist tradition. His sculptures are the result of an extremely time-consuming process that requires meticulous attention to detail. The works often begin as sketches on paper and small-scale plaster maquettes which enable the artist to experiment with the subject’s pose and demeanour. This work involves the construction of a large metal armature which is covered in plaster and modelling clay. A silicon mould is then painstakingly prepared to give the skin a natural-looking texture and colour. Hairs are individually inserted into hand-drilled holes and finer details such as veins and imperfections in the skin are painted directly onto the work.

View Ron Mueck’s In bed 2005 in 'Wonderstruck' at the Gallery of Modern Art until 6 October 2025, delve into the captivating works on display with our weekly highlights, or embark on the journey of a Wonderstruck Wonderer with our digital interactive experience.

Ron Mueck, England b.1958 / In bed 2005 / Mixed media / 161.9 x 649.9 x 395cm / Purchased 2008. QAG Foundation / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art / © Ron Mueck

Ron Mueck, England b.1958 / In bed 2005 / Mixed media / 161.9 x 649.9 x 395cm / Purchased 2008. QAG Foundation / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art / © Ron Mueck / View full image

Ron Mueck, England b.1958 / In bed (detail) 2005 / Mixed media / 161.9 x 649.9 x 395cm / Purchased 2008. QAG Foundation / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art / © Ron Mueck

Ron Mueck, England b.1958 / In bed (detail) 2005 / Mixed media / 161.9 x 649.9 x 395cm / Purchased 2008. QAG Foundation / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art / © Ron Mueck / View full image

Wonderstruck
28 June – 6 October 2025
Gallery of Modern Art
Gallery 1.1 (The Fairfax Gallery), Gallery 1.2 & Gallery 1.3 (Eric and Marion Taylor Gallery)
Brisbane, Australia
Free entry

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