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Over the last four decades, David Rabinowitch has made significant contributions to the field of sculpture. Rabinowitch ceased painting in 1962, having transitioned to the medium of sculpture in 1960 after exposure to the work of fellow artist David Smith. The 100 woodblock monotypes he created in 1962, shown here for the first time, represent the work of the artist at the very point that his first sculptural works were being formulated. They provide a fascinating insight into the process that produced Rabinowitch's early Mass Works in steel--but though these monotypes clearly precede and perhaps foreshadow the artist's early sculptures, they are by no means studies for them. The independence that the monotypes have from the sculptures is clearly apparent, but they are directly expressive of sculptural issues, many of which Rabinowitch was the first to introduce. Of major concern was the establishment of an abstract ideography of signs that conveyed nothing other than themselves; in these monographs, he created lively, colorful, almost calligraphic forms that dance along in endless, weightless, point and counter-point relationships.
This book explores the pivotal 1962 woodblock monotypes of artist David Rabinowitch, created at the cusp of his transition from painting to sculpture. The 100 monotypes, presented here for the first time, offer a unique window into Rabinowitch's artistic process as he formulated his early sculptural works. While these pieces clearly precede and may foreshadow his sculptures, they are not mere studies but possess an independent artistic merit. They directly engage with sculptural concerns, particularly the establishment of an abstract ideography of signs that convey only themselves, manifesting as lively, colorful, calligraphic forms in dynamic relationships.
The book is likely to be of significant interest to scholars and collectors of contemporary sculpture and printmaking, offering a rare look at a crucial period in David Rabinowitch's career. The presentation of these previously unseen monotypes provides a unique opportunity to understand the conceptual underpinnings of his sculptural practice. The detailed analysis promises to illuminate the artist's innovative approach to abstract ideography and the expression of sculptural concerns through graphic means. This collection serves as a testament to Rabinowitch's early artistic vision and his foundational contributions to the field.
Page Count:
84
Publication Date:
2004-01-01
Publisher:
Peter Blum Edition, New York
ISBN-10:
0935875212
ISBN-13:
9780935875218
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