Gomer

Hank Murta Adams, Gomer, 1990, cast glass and metal, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the James Renwick Alliance on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Renwick Gallery, 1997.59
Copied Hank Murta Adams, Gomer, 1990, cast glass and metal, 29 1417 3413 14 in. (74.345.133.7 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the James Renwick Alliance on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Renwick Gallery, 1997.59

Artwork Details

Title
Gomer
Date
1990
Dimensions
29 1417 3413 14 in. (74.345.133.7 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of the James Renwick Alliance on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Renwick Gallery
Mediums
Mediums Description
cast glass and metal
Classifications
Subjects
  • Figure — fragment — face
Object Number
1997.59

Artwork Description

Hank Murta Adams was not formally trained in glass but learned through trial and error. His pieces often developed cracks while cooling, and these “flaws” became an integral part of his work. The color used in Gomer was not consciously chosen, but resulted from what was available at the factory when Adams obtained his glass. The artist is fascinated by the human head and uses it to express intense psychological states. Viewers are often shocked to discover Gomer is made from glass, as its garish color and intimidating stance contradict the fluidity and delicate nature of many blown or flameworked pieces.