Screen
Robert Adams
Life Story
A dynamic cluster of flat steel triangles and asymmetric rectangles have been welded together to form a freestanding screen, designed to be seen from both sides. The spaces exposed between and around the geometric shapes become active elements of the composition. This adds to the sense of controlled movement that Robert Adams wanted to generate in his works. In 1966, Adams described this as aiming for ‘stability and movement in one form’. [1]
Adams created a series of screens and prints integrating clusters of triangles and rectangular forms in the early 1960s. In 1962 he exhibited works from this series at the Venice Biennale and at Gimpel Fils Gallery in London. This screen was commissioned by Michael Morris in 1965.
Lisa Newby, August 2022
[1] Alastair Grieve, Robert Adams 1917-1984: A Sculptor’s Record (London: Tate Gallery, 1992) p.17.
Provenance
Screen was commissioned and bought by Michael Morris in 1965
In October 1984, the University of East Anglia accepted a planned bequest from Joyce and Michael Morris (UEA Alumni). Michael died in 2009 and Joyce in December 2014 when the couple's wishes were implemented.
Not on display
Title/Description: Screen
Born: 1965
Accession Number: 31552
Historic Period: 20th century
Credit Line: Bequeathed by Joyce and Michael Morris, 2014
