In Memoriam: Contemporary artist Mike Kelley, 57

Kelley was found dead in his residence in South Pasadena on Tuesday evening, said LA County coroner's office spokesman Ed Winter.

"The cause of death is pending. He was found unresponsive at home," Winter said. "An autopsy was done yesterday and cause of death is deferred. They have to do a bunch of tests."

The Los Angeles Times, citing friends of the artist, reported that Kelley's death was a suicide following a long period of depression.

Kelley, who was born in Detroit, was known for psychologically complex projects that broke new ground. In his early years he was involved with Detroit's music scene, which spawned such bands as Iggy and the Stooges. Kelley was a member of the noise band Destroy All Monsters.

In November 2005, Kelley staged 'Day is Done,' filling Gagosian Gallery with funhouse-like multimedia installations, including automated furniture, as well as films of dream-like ceremonies inspired by high school yearbook photos of pageants, sports matches and theater productions.

Paul Schimmel, chief curator of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, paid tribute.

"LA would not have become a great international capital of contemporary art without Mike Kelley," he said.

"Of all the artists in the 1980s, he was the one who really broke out and established a new and complex identity for his generation."

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