Dimensions: object: 102 x 156 x 57 mm
Copyright: The Work of Naum Gabo © Nina & Graham Williams/Tate, London 2014 | CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED, Photo: Tate
Curator: Here we have Naum Gabo’s "Model for ‘Construction in Space with Crystalline Centre’," a study in transparent materials. Editor: It gives the impression of fragility, like a geometric kite caught mid-flight. Curator: Gabo was deeply invested in challenging traditional sculpture, aiming to represent space and time through industrial materials. This speaks to his Constructivist ideals, mirroring utopian social visions. Editor: The crystalline form is particularly potent. Crystals often symbolize clarity, purity, and even spiritual enlightenment. It’s interesting to see that positioned centrally. Curator: Indeed, and within the socio-political context, these forms embody ideas of progress and transparency, concepts highly valued by revolutionary movements. Editor: Ultimately, it's a compelling visual metaphor for the intersection of inner reflection and societal aspiration. Curator: Yes, and understanding that interrelation adds a rich layer to the piece.
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http://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/gabo-model-for-construction-in-space-with-crystalline-centre-t02180
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There are two larger versions related to this model. They belong to a small group of works of the 1930s that are among Gabo's finest. This construction is based on the juxtaposition of organic, sweeping planes which demonstrate the properties of transparency and flexibility in perspex, and a precise, crystalline centre. These elements embody contrasting energies - flowing momentum and internal, cell-like division - held in counterpoise. Gallery label, October 1997