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Concrete Sculpture: Mirr
Concrete Sculpture: Mirr
Concrete Sculpture: Mirr

Concrete Sculpture: Mirr

Maker (French, 1886–1966)
Date1936
MediumCast bronze
DimensionsOverall: 7 3/8 x 5 x 6 3/4 in. (18.7 x 12.7 x 17.2 cm)
Credit LineThe Joel Starrels, Jr. Memorial Collection
Copyright© 2002 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York / VG Bild-Kunst, Bonn
Object number1974.226
Status
Not on view
Description
A founding figure of Dada, Jean (Hans) Arp proposed that art should not represent nature but instead be like nature by producing completely new forms rather than being mere abstractions of the everyday objects around us. Arp said he wanted his sculpture to “walk on the tips of its toes,” so these works do not have a designated top or bottom and can be placed at any orientation. They spring to life through this implied sense of animation. In a certain playfulness of possibility, they may freely sprawl about and interact according to their mood, exchanging gestures, extending limbs, and shifting postures as if they were truly moving, living creatures. Their names invite you to listen for the quiet motions of a curious crow or the onomatopoetic “mirr” of a small forest critter.