Keep

Copied Anne Truitt, Keep, 1962, acrylic on wood, 7239 1410 18 in. (182.999.725.7 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Philip M. Stern, 1972.172

Artwork Details

Title
Keep
Artist
Date
1962
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
7239 1410 18 in. (182.999.725.7 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Philip M. Stern
Mediums
Mediums Description
acrylic on wood
Classifications
Keywords
  • Abstract
Object Number
1972.172

Artwork Description

Anne Truitt's sculptures often refer to people and places she has known, or to specific experiences. All are scaled to relate to the human body. An early mature work by the artist, Keep is both intimate and intimidating. Its bulky shape gives the impression of a crenellated battlement (a keep is the innermost structure of a medieval castle). Its title is also a loaded word suggesting possession, protection, and preservation. Truitt draws meaning from deeply felt, personal associations. "It's the human experience that is distilled into art that makes it great," she said.