Envelope

Copied Claire Falkenstein, Envelope, 1958, steel wire assemblage, 486036 in. (122.0152.491.4 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. David K. Anderson, Martha Jackson Memorial Collection, 1981.109.6

Artwork Details

Title
Envelope
Date
1958
Dimensions
486036 in. (122.0152.491.4 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. David K. Anderson, Martha Jackson Memorial Collection
Mediums
Mediums Description
steel wire assemblage
Classifications
Keywords
  • Abstract
Object Number
1981.109.6

Artwork Description

The interval, the space between, has always been as important as the form to me.
?--Claire Falkenstein

A traditional sculpture is solid, made to sit firmly on a pedestal. Envelope is different. Created from wire and hanging in midair, it operates like a three-dimensional drawing, outlining and defining space without filling it.

Claire Falkenstein intended this piece to be seen from all sides. Notice how its contours appear to morph as you move around it. Its form might bring to mind something as vast as the galaxy or as small as a cocoon.