Philip-Lorca diCorcia's 'Roid' At Sprüth Magers London (PHOTOS)

American artist Philip-Lorca diCorcia's 'Roid' is an opportunity to see him both develop and set aside the style of his trademark compositions. His first show at Sprüth Magers’ London gallery, displays dozens of Polaroids not previously exhibited. The false candids--for which the artist is best known--are still present, but they share the gallery walls with landscapes and architectural shots.

These other styles, overwhelming with scale instead of minute detail, affirm the object, which diCorcia has spent much of his career undermining. Before there was commentary, we are assured, there were images. Alongside the vacant expressions and offhand gestures, we can see moments when nature or circumstance posed compellingly enough that diCorcia didn't need to add his own narrative.

Philip-Lorca diCorcia's 'Roid' is on view at Sprüth Magers London, 7A Grafton Street, London W1S 4EJ, through June 18 2011