Henry Moore

This is the first major exhibition of the work of the famous English sculptor Henry Moore (1898-1986) since 1968. The exhibition will highlight the architectural aspects of Moore’s sculpting. Providing new insights into Moore’s work, exploring the conflict between. Over 150 objects will be on display.

Viewing Moore’s sculptures it is immediately apparent that Moore created an intrinsic harmony between sculpture and landscape. However, what happens when this relationship is disrupted? Moore repeatedly stated that architects considered public sculpture as an afterthought, as ‘mere surface decoration’ to adorn their buildings. He attempted to redress this perceived imbalance, initially by making sculpture more integral to the building and finally by using tough abstract ‘architectural contrasts of masses’ which could stand as a force in their own right.

This exhibition is the first to address these conflicts. Focusing upon a selected group of architectural commissions including Rotterdam’s Bouwcentrum Wall Relief at the Weena close to the Central Station, the only large piece Moore exceeded in brick stone, and experimental sculptures for UNESCO that make use of elements such as steps, benches and walls, the exhibition demonstrates how Moore treated the complex relationship between architecture and sculpture.

Pressetext

Henry Moore
And the Challenge of Architecture