Making of Rodin

Auguste Rodin was a radical sculptor whose unorthodox approach to sculpture-making provided a definitive break in the history of Western sculpture. This book explores his use of plaster, a material which demonstrates his interest in creating sculptures that are never completed, always becoming, and includes an exclusive contribution from sculptor Phyllida Barlow. It sheds light on the artists use of materials, his unique way of working, and his imaginative use of photography, revealing how Rodin reinvented sculpture for the modern age and why his work continues to enthral and provoke to this day.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 192 pages
\n Publication date: 05 May 2021
\n Publisher: Tate Publishing
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Auguste Rodin (1840–1917) was a revolutionary sculptor whose unconventional approach to sculpture-making marked a significant turning point in the history of Western sculpture. While much of his commercial success was attributed to the bronze and marble reproductions of his works, Rodin's greatest talent lay in his ability as a modeler, capable of capturing movement, emotion, light, and volume in clay and plaster to challenge traditional notions of beauty and perfection.

In light of recent perspectives on Rodin, this book delves into the artist's use of plaster, a material that reflects his fascination with creating sculptures that are never fully realized, always evolving. By exploring a collection of fragile and experimental pieces alongside fresh interpretations of some of Rodin's iconic works, as well as a selection of his watercolour drawings, The Making of Rodin sheds light on the artist's material choices, his distinctive working methods, and his imaginative use of photography, unveiling how Rodin revolutionized sculpture for the modern era and why his work continues to captivate and provoke audiences to this day.

Auguste Rodin's (1840–1917) artistic journey was marked by his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of sculpture. Born in Paris, France, Rodin's early life was shaped by his fascination with the human form and his desire to capture its essence in his work. He studied under renowned sculptors such as Jean-Antoine Houdon and Antoine-Louis Barye, gaining valuable knowledge and skills in the traditional techniques of sculpture.

However, Rodin's true innovation came with his rejection of traditional methods and his pursuit of a more expressive and dynamic form of sculpture. He believed that sculpture should not be limited to static forms but should capture the essence of movement and emotion. This led him to experiment with new materials and techniques, such as plaster, which allowed him to capture the texture and weight of the human form in a way that had never been done before.

One of Rodin's most famous works is "The Thinker," a monumental bronze sculpture that depicts a nude male figure in a contemplative pose. This sculpture is a testament to Rodin's ability to capture the human form in its most raw and powerful state. The figure is depicted with a sense of tension and vulnerability, his body contorted in a way that suggests a deep internal struggle. The use of plaster in this sculpture allowed Rodin to create a sense of realism and depth that was previously impossible to achieve with traditional materials.

In addition to "The Thinker," Rodin's other notable works include "The Burghers of Calais," a bronze sculpture that depicts a group of refugees fleeing from the battlefield. This sculpture is a powerful portrayal of human suffering and resilience, and it demonstrates Rodin's ability to capture the complex emotions and relationships between individuals.

Another important aspect of Rodin's work is his use of photography. He believed that photography was a powerful tool for capturing the essence of his sculptures and for documenting his artistic process. He often used photography to capture the details of his sculptures, such as the texture and surface of the bronze, and to document his working methods.

Rodin's influence on sculpture was profound, and his innovative approach to the medium has continued to inspire artists to this day. His emphasis on the human form, his use of new materials and techniques, and his commitment to capturing the essence of movement and emotion have made him one of the most celebrated sculptors of all time.

In conclusion, Auguste Rodin (1840–1917) was a revolutionary sculptor whose unconventional approach to sculpture-making marked a significant turning point in the history of Western sculpture. His use of plaster, his experimentation with new materials and techniques, and his commitment to capturing the human form in its most raw and powerful state have made him one of the most celebrated sculptors of all time. His legacy continues to inspire artists and audiences alike, and his works will continue to be treasured for generations to come.

\n Weight: 996g\n
Dimension: 192 x 245 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781849766753\n \n