Anthony Caro: Stainless Steel

The sixth volume in Lund Humphries' series on British sculptor Anthony Caro focuses on his use of stainless steel as a distinct body of work. Karen Wilkin analyzes Caro's use of stainless steel in the context of modernist constructed sculpture, pioneered by Caro and David Smith.

Format: Hardback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 05 August 2019
Publisher: Lund Humphries Publishers Ltd

This sixth volume in Lund Humphries' series of monographs on British sculptor Anthony Caro marks a significant milestone, as it delves into the artist's pioneering use of stainless steel as a distinct body of work. Over the course of his illustrious career, Caro embraced stainless steel extensively, employing it in a wide range of sculptures, from intimate tabletop pieces to colossal masterpieces. In his later works, Caro's profound exploration and interrogation of this material took on increasing importance, reflecting his unwavering commitment to artistic innovation.

Karen Wilkin's insightful analysis contextualizes Caro's use of stainless steel within the broader framework of modernist constructed sculpture, a movement that emerged in the UK under the guidance of Caro and in the US through the influence of his friend and esteemed predecessor, David Smith. Tragically, Smith's untimely passing in 1965 left a profound impact on Caro's artistic journey, as he inherited the majority of the stainless steel he initially employed. Through her meticulous research, Wilkin sheds light on Caro's late career, providing a much-needed overview that enhances our understanding of 20th-century and early 21st-century modernist sculpture.

Wilkin's text serves as a valuable contribution to the field, offering a comprehensive exploration of Caro's artistic evolution and his profound engagement with stainless steel. It deepens our appreciation for his remarkable talent and his enduring influence on the art world. This monograph not only showcases Caro's exceptional craftsmanship but also sheds light on the broader historical context in which his work unfolded, contributing to our understanding of the rich tapestry of modernist sculpture.

Weight: 908g
Dimension: 285 x 251 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848223486