Rectangular Forms
Robert Adams
Life Story
The sense of controlled movement that could be achieved by layering abstract asymmetric forms became a key concern for the sculptor Robert Adams in the 1950s. In this print, Adams activates the positive and negative spaces of cascading rectangular forms. The shapes correspond directly with the bronze sculptures Adams was developing in this period.
Adams displayed this print in an exhibition of his recent work at Gimpel Fils Gallery, London in February 1956. His sketchbooks from this period include studies that relate closely to this print, in which he works through the carefully poised composition of geometric forms.[1]
Lisa Newby, July 2022
[1] Alastair Grieve, Robert Adams 1917-1984: A Sculptor’s Record (London: Tate Gallery, 1992) p.36-7.
Exhibitions
'Rhythm and Geometry: Constructivist art in Britain since 1951', Sainsbury Centre, UK, 02/10/2021 - 17/07/2022
Further Reading
Tania Moore and Calvin Winner (eds.), Rhythm and Geometry: Constructivist art in Britain since 1951 (Norwich: Sainsbury Centre, 2021), p.1.
Provenance
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: Rectangular Forms
Artist/Maker: Robert Adams
Born: 1955
Accession Number: 31622
Historic Period: 20th century
Credit Line: Bequeathed by Joyce and Michael Morris, 2014
