Abstract Expressionism

Abstract Expressionist Sculpture

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Questions

What makes something a sculpture? What makes something a painting?

What kinds of materials do sculptors use to make art?

What kinds of choices do artists make when creating sculptures?

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Take a close look at Sky Cathedral, by Louise Nevelson…

• Describe this work. What shapes do you see? What kind of materials do you think she used?

• How is this work like a painting?

• How is this work like a sculpture?

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Louise Nevelson. Sky Cathedral. 1958

Let’s take a look at Australia, by David Smith

• What words would you use to describe the lines and shapes in this sculpture?

• What materials did he use?

• Smith’s sculptures are often characterized as “drawing in space.”

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

David Smith. Australia. 1951

• How are these sculptures similar? How are they different?

Let’s compare Smith’s and Nevelson’s sculptures

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Louise Nevelson. Sky Cathedral. 1958

David Smith. Australia. 1951

Louise Nevelson. Sky Cathedral. 1958

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

David Smith. Australia. 1951

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Isamu Noguchi. My Pacific (Polynesian Culture). 1942

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Louise Bourgeois. Sleeping Figure, II. 1959

MoMA Abstract Expressionism