Untitled, Joel Shapiro

Untitled (1982)

Joel Shapiro's Untitled series is an obvious exploration of the human form, abstractly represented by the limbs. These pieces, which use cedar wood blocks attached where limbs might be, are very gestural and emphasize the movement of the form. As well as this, there is a narrative quality to his works, especially when they are presented next to each other, almost creating an animated affect. The use of a stark white rectangular base plays well into the sculpture as well as the white contrasts very sharply against the dark cedar wood, and the continual use of geometric shapes and angles creates an implied organic form. Since the sculptures are almost recognized as a human form, there is a sense of humor in the pieces as each form has such varied positions and movement.

This sculpture is currently featured in the Museum of Modern Art.