Subject Matter

As I have observed the contemporary art by Michael Cacnio entitled “Balloons” there
are 2 figurines in the sculpture, a female and a male. The male in the sculpture is on
the lower part of the figurine and the female has the higher part where the male is
holding onto the foot of the female who is pulled upward by the balloons. Both, male
and female have the same position where one hand is up in the air and the other leg is
bent but differs on the items their holding.

Material

The artist Michael Cacnio has shown his expertise in the use of this medium, whether
it’s the small or big parts in the figures. He used the material brass in making this
sculpture. The tiny fingers that are done with precision, torso that is welded smoothly,
balloons that are painted with dominant color to gold to add variety in the sculpture. The
whole sculpture is standing on a rectangular block that has the signature of Cacnio.

Art elements and Principles

As we looked at the figurines the male and female are supported by the legs of the
ladder. We notice that the ladder is not leaning any walls that could support its balance.
The only connection of the figurines is the pointed foot of the male attached to one of
the steps of the ladder and their hands that are held up on the air that provides balance
to the whole figure, therefore this sculpture achieved a perfect balance for the figurines.
The figures are light despite the use of solid brass. They project a floating effect. The
sculpture shows grace, as the figures seem to be dancing while being pulled upward.
There is a repetition of form as seen in the bended knees, arms in the air and pointed
feet. The head of the female is bent while the head of the male looks up, thus giving an
impression that he is flying with her and both will soon be up in the air being pulled
upward by the balloons