The Language of the Birds 2013

Editor: Here we have Anselm Kiefer's "The Language of the Birds" created in 2013. It appears to be a sculptural piece. The heavy, muted tones give it a solemn and monumental quality. What do you see when you look at this sculpture? Curator: Primarily, I'm struck by the interplay of vertical and horizontal lines. The stack of what appears to be slate books contrasts starkly with the expansive wings. Do you perceive a sense of tension between these two elements? Editor: I do. The wings are reaching, almost desperate, while the books seem to weigh everything down. It is almost like they cannot escape. Is this intentional? Curator: We must look at the structure itself, and appreciate the physicality. Consider the medium, the density of the slate. It inherently speaks of history and the weight of knowledge. The artist is using formal methods to highlight historical themes. Is it possible for a visual structure to tell a narrative? Editor: Absolutely, I think so. Especially with the titles included, I imagine the layered materials create the theme and invite me to ponder on an inner story within the sculpture. Is this something you notice as well? Curator: The horizontal layering of these 'books,' interrupted by the reaching diagonal lines of broken frames and wings, evokes a certain visual rhythm that could be described in musical terms as a complex, atonal chord. Consider, how might the use of texture enhance our comprehension? Editor: Thinking about the texture, there's the rough, tactile quality of the wings juxtaposed with the relatively smoother surfaces of the stacked books. It really adds another layer of complexity to the artwork’s already imposing scale. Curator: Precisely. The interplay of texture creates another point of entry into a larger story of meaning. It serves not merely to document material realities, but, to transform visual space by emphasizing a sensory mode beyond sight, don’t you agree? Editor: I absolutely agree. The wings, though made of a similar dark material to the books, feel lighter, more dynamic because of their textured surface, in contrast with the weightiness of the rest. It really encourages viewers to consider contrasting qualities, making "The Language of the Birds" thought-provoking. Thanks so much.