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?

Louise Nevelson. Sky Cathedral. 1958

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

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.”

David Smith. Australia. 1951

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

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

David Smith. Australia. 1951 Louise Nevelson. Sky Cathedral.

1958
• How are these sculptures similar? How are they different?

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

 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