Red Earth

Copied Barry Tinsley, Red Earth, 1980, welded Cor-Ten steel and concrete, relief: 17 5⁄8 x 28 x 4 7⁄8 in. (44.9 x 71.1 x 12.4 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the S. W. and B. M. Koffler Foundation, 1980.103.1

Artwork Details

Title
Red Earth
Artist
Date
1980
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
relief: 17 5⁄8 x 28 x 4 7⁄8 in. (44.9 x 71.1 x 12.4 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of the S. W. and B. M. Koffler Foundation
Mediums
Mediums Description
welded Cor-Ten steel and concrete
Classifications
Subjects
  • Abstract
Object Number
1980.103.1
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1980.103.1

Artwork Description

Red Earth is an example of Barry Tinsley's smaller-scale, though nonetheless monumental, metal and concrete sculpture. Cor-Ten steel, also known as weathering steel, develops a rustlike surface if exposed to the elements for several years. This textured surface, combined with the sharp edges and imposing shapes, gives the sculpture an unfinished, industrial feel. Tinsley combined abstract shapes to create this piece, removing all outside influences from our experience of this work so that we consider the characteristics of the material as well as the overall presence of the structure.