Giving and Taking II

by Kelsey Zalimeni

The sand-cast bronze 'Giving and Taking II' depicts two lovers locked in an amorous embrace.  The title implies an egalitarian ideal for relationships, striving for stasis through constant reciprocation.  The focus is cropped to the trunk and arms of the figures for emphasis on the physical and emotional exchange between them.

"Giving and Taking II", 2008

Bronze, 24 x 7 x 8 inches, Collection of Rudolf Gutlich

The sculpture achieves a deep sensuality without overt, literal exposure.  There is a tantalizing secrecy to the encounter, as both figures shield one another from the outside world.  They emerge together from the wall, bound in their union and determined to remain indivisible. 

Carole's Picks: John Clement

by Kelsey Zalimeni

It's time again for the monthly edition of Carole's Picks.  July's featured artist is John Clement, a minimalist sculptor specializing in large-scale public works.  Clement's interlocking coils of steel create a dynamic, centrifugal energy that draws viewers into the work while safely providing sections to sit, lean or stand on.  The pieces are titled after the objects that inspired them, such as the select works shown below: 'Tusk', 'Squirt' and 'Orange Blossom'.

Clement creates these sculptures with intent to offer viewers multiple options for encounter- some enjoy quiet reflection, others gather round for social rituals, and still more take the opportunity for spatial investigation.  The versatility of the work and the intersubjectivity of its experience make for a durable relevance across the ages. 

View John Clement's Sculpture.org profile here.

Francesca

by Kelsey Zalimeni

Carole Feuerman has established a certain signature style of sculpture that conveys balance, peace, and the natural beauty of the human body.  'Francesca' evokes these qualities, but also branches into ideals of solitude and contemplation.  Seemingly locked in a state of endless meditation, the figure brings out a more solemn side to Carole's expressions.  

'Francesca', 2008-2011

Oil on Resin, 35 x 18.5 x 9 inches, Private collection

Her hands are clasped behind her back, but her posture is relaxed.  While viewers aren't privy to her exact thoughts, one might imagine the swimmer is lost in a daydream or  simply resting after a rigorous pool workout.  Her aura is both cool and positive, focused but free of worry.  This pensive figure is surely a unique feature within Carole's oeuvre- a little different, but in line with the artist's ethos. 

Tree

by Kelsey Zalimeni

Carole Feuerman's 'Tree' invests the human form with refreshing simplicity and innocent purity.  Delicately posed with a downward gaze, the figure emanates a coy comfortability in her state of exposure.  Her slender frame and dainty features imply both a gentle nature and physical youth.

'Tree with Leaves', 2011

Oil on Resin Sculpture with Interactive Projection, Dimensions Variable, Private Collection

The swim cap upon her head is green and leafy, purposing itself as an organic adornment in place of its usual utility role. The tree stump beneath the figure reinforces the naturalistic theme while serving as a pedestal.  Tying the piece together is the multicolor digital projection of leaves onto the surface.  This mechanism adds a layer of complexity to the work, as it fuses a classic form of artmaking with new media. This sculpture floats between dreamlike and realist, innocence and confidence... which, in turn, is truly ideal.

The Message

by Kelsey Zalimeni

Carole Feuerman's bronze sculpture 'The Message' recalls simpler times of communication, before the days of emails, smartphones, and social media.  The shimmering figure stoops gracefully to retrieve a mysterious note; the viewer is left to wonder about its contents and sender. With her polished bronze finish, it is almost as though this woman is comprised of the sunlight she basks in.

'The Message', 2013- Bronze, 46 x 27 x 32 inches

The figure is shown in a phase of tension between receiving and reading this message.  There is no subject line, no sender address... no telling who or where it is from until she reads it.  'The Message' romanticizes human communication through this glimmering bronze figure caught in a moment of suspense.

Watch: Exclusive Unveiling Footage

By Kelsey Zalimeni

The unveiling of Carole Feuerman's 'Double Diver' on the NetApp grounds in Sunnyvale, CA was a major success.  Carole and her team were thrilled to be part of this special occasion between community and corporation. This post offers exclusive footage of the NetApp ceremony, so that all who follow Carole's activity can witness the excitement of the big day.  Enjoy!

The Spirit of Sport

by Kelsey Zalimeni

With the World Cup kicking off this week, spirits and anticipation run high all over the globe. In light of all the excitement, what better work to consider than Carole Feuerman's 'Lauren Perdue,' a full-body resin cast of the young Olympic athlete.  Now, of course swimming and soccer aren't nearly the same activity. However, the key traits of a top competitor- passion, discipline, and drive- are common amongst champions of any sport. As a portrait, 'Lauren Perdue' honors the incredible career of an Olympic athlete.  Expanded to a larger metaphor, this piece reflects the ability of athletic events like the Olympics and World Cup to unite nations across the globe in the spirit of sport. 

'Lauren Perdue', 2013- oil on resin

Although the figure is shown at rest, this does not imply any sort of complacency or defeat.  Her countenance and symmetrical pose speak to balance and focus, as viewers catch the determined competitor in a moment of silent preparation.  The display choice puts the piece fully into context, surrounding Lauren by her natural habitat, her sanctuary, her racing lane.  All who encounter this sculpture are reminded of the purity of sport, invited to be lost in admiration of our human capabilities.

Watch this short feature on Carole's process with 'Lauren Perdue'-

Visit Lauren Perdue's Team USA page HERE.

General's Twin

by Kelsey Zalimeni

'General's Twin' protrudes from its hanging place with commanding presence and a sense of dignity exuding from the figure.  The piece only features the top portion of the swimmer, succeeding to convey a powerful stance despite the body's absent lower half.  This sculpture possesses a unique balance of grace and potency, achieved by a combination of delicate details and a carefully carved physique.

'General's Twin', 2009-2011

Oil on Resin, 24 x 15 x 8 inches, The Smithsonian Institute National Portrait Gallery

The soft, rosy lips of the swimmer work nicely with a similarly colored swimming top to emit rays of youthful, feminine beauty.  Her broad, athletic shoulders and toned abdomen communicate a formidable side to this woman.  With eyes closed and head held high, she basks in the glory of her own composition, yet another great testament to the accomplishments of her maker and the values she stands for. This piece is a particularly important work by Carole, as it is displayed at the Smithsonian Institute National Portrait Gallery.  Its acquisition by such a renown institution is not only a great accomplishment for Carole in her career, but an honor as a citizen of this country to contribute artwork to a national collection.