Alberto Giacometti (1901-1966) - 20230211_135606
Widely acclaimed as one of the most important sculptors of the 20th century, Alberto Giacometti (1901-1966) reasserted the validity of the figure and figural representation at a time when abstract art had become dominant in the international art world. This exhibition looks deeply at this central, animating aspect of his work-his extraordinary, singular concern for the human figure. It focuses on his achievements of the postwar period (1945-66), when he developed his signature style featuring thin, elongated bodies animated by vigorously modeled surfaces. The exploration of an elemental body, its placement in space, and its relationship with the plinth are among the issues he confronted in trying to solve essential questions for modern sculpture. The exhibition also explores how many of the greatest photographers of the day contributed to Giacometti's growing reputation and the mythical status he achieved during his lifetime.
Giacometti's works became associated with existentialism, a philosophy that questions the nature of the human condition. To many, his emaciated figures pervaded by feelings of alienation, loneliness, fear, insignificance, and uncertainty embodied the psychological climate that followed in the wake of World War II. This somber narrative, however, is not the only perspective from which to view his work. At times, Giacometti used his wit to introduce a lighter note, especially when portraying the people in his immediate circle. Above all, the rugged surfaces of his sculptures express resilience, and his soaring figures, somehow outside of time, are universal emblems of courage and hope.
Alberto Giacometti (1901-1966) - 20230211_135606
Widely acclaimed as one of the most important sculptors of the 20th century, Alberto Giacometti (1901-1966) reasserted the validity of the figure and figural representation at a time when abstract art had become dominant in the international art world. This exhibition looks deeply at this central, animating aspect of his work-his extraordinary, singular concern for the human figure. It focuses on his achievements of the postwar period (1945-66), when he developed his signature style featuring thin, elongated bodies animated by vigorously modeled surfaces. The exploration of an elemental body, its placement in space, and its relationship with the plinth are among the issues he confronted in trying to solve essential questions for modern sculpture. The exhibition also explores how many of the greatest photographers of the day contributed to Giacometti's growing reputation and the mythical status he achieved during his lifetime.
Giacometti's works became associated with existentialism, a philosophy that questions the nature of the human condition. To many, his emaciated figures pervaded by feelings of alienation, loneliness, fear, insignificance, and uncertainty embodied the psychological climate that followed in the wake of World War II. This somber narrative, however, is not the only perspective from which to view his work. At times, Giacometti used his wit to introduce a lighter note, especially when portraying the people in his immediate circle. Above all, the rugged surfaces of his sculptures express resilience, and his soaring figures, somehow outside of time, are universal emblems of courage and hope.