Unikat 2003 

James Licini’s “Unikat” made in 2003 explores themes of identity and transformation using rusted metal. Licini, born in 1937, came of age during a period of significant social change, with movements challenging established norms around race, class, and gender. This sculpture reflects a sense of deconstruction and reconstruction that was happening at the time. The rust, a sign of weathering and decay, gives a visual and metaphorical weight to the sculpture. The geometric shapes suggest a human-like structure, inviting us to consider how societal forces shape individual identity. The open spaces within the structure create a dialogue between presence and absence, reflecting the complexities and fragmentations of modern life. Licini’s choice of materials and forms invites an emotional response, as the sculpture resonates with themes of change, decay, and the ongoing negotiation of identity within a shifting world.