Carl Andre, b. 1935

Carl Andre’s method of taking common resources out of their man-made confinements and freeing them to exist as separate entities is perfectly displayed in Untitled. However, it is the combination of this technique with the more unusual element of juxtaposing natural and man-made media that makes this work especially interesting.

Warmly toned offerings of red slate and yellow sulphur are placed at the centre of each cement slab, transforming their blocks into pedestals and highlighting the cement’s rough, monochromatic traits in comparison to their own more organic qualities.

Not wanting to detract from the inherent attributes of his materials, the scale of Andre’s work generally does not extend far beyond the natural height of its medium, provoking us to regard the work's order, setting and individual characteristics. Untitled is no exception. The work is not imposing but rather something for the observer to contemplate, admire and enjoy; and whilst the slabs stand together they hold their own space, maintaining the functional aloofness that underlies all of Andre’s sculpture.