Master's Theses

Department

Art

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Abstract

My sculptures were built around two central themes, humanism and mechanical ism. Throughout the construction of each piece I worked to balance the human element with the mechanical or structural element. My reasons for doing so arrive from my observations of our present day western civilization and the vast amount of machines we use and depend upon in our lives. The human element used In my sculpture Is reflective of my thoughts about mankind In general. I used the most recognizable characteristic of man, his face, simplifying it to the extreme generalization of a universal face representational of all people. The mechanical or structural element is represented by numerous parts from mechanical devices found in everyday life. Assembling of found objects in conjunction with constructed pieces, created forms resembling objects such as radiators and whistles along with equally functional looking but imaginary steam machines. Physically, few of my sculptures have "real" movement or function. Visually, they have implied mechanical function. Aesthetically, they are "mechanical designs" in the round offering no function but existence and no form but form itself. A final insight about my sculptures is that they are statements about man and machines and their interdependency in a contemporary society.

Keywords

Art

Advisor

Darrell McGinnis

Date of Award

Summer 1974

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

Rights

© The Author(s)

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