Women, Bronze, And Dangerous Things

For my last post in this blog I wanted to talk about Diana Al-Hadid’s most recent exhibition. “Women, Bronze, And Dangerous Things” is currently on display in Kasmin Gallery. The exhibition went up on September 2nd of 2023 and will be up until December 22nd. “Women, Bronze, And Dangerous Things” is very large compared to the other exhibitions I have talked about. It contains 27 pieces that were created over the last five years. I really enjoy “Blue Medusa”. My favorite color is blue so I was immediately drawn to this piece. The large opening in the middle and the white highlights that surround it direct the viewer's attention to the center of the piece. To me it looks like a giant blue eye. “Tu’bir Albi” does a good job using color and contrast, going from a light outside edge to a black center. Al-Hadid’s use of negative space also elevates this piece. The gaps between the branches makes the pieces seem more tree-like and the giant hole in the center gives the piece a feeling of rotting from the inside. As I've stated before, I love Al-Hadid’s sculptures that incorporate the human form, so “Double Standard" was one of my favorite works in this exhibit. From the root-like base, to the reclining figure, to the geometric form in place of the head, this bronze piece is just beautiful. I think the decision to place the piece outdoors adds to the sculpture as well and makes it seem like some ethereal nature goddess. One last piece I'd like to mention is “The Knot”. While this piece isn't as extravagant or as large as many of Al-Hadid’s other sculptures, it holds its own beauty in its simplicity. The gradation of color that emphasizes the knot in the middle of the piece and the realistic folds and rough edges makes it seem as if the sculpture is a real piece of fabric someone tied in a knot. There are so many other remarakable pieces in this exhibit that you should check out if you have the time.

Blue Medusa

Tu'bir Albi

Double Standard

The Knot