Chicago Skyline Analysis

This sculpture is composed entirely of a series of sets of four vertical metal beams, connected horizontally by shorter beams, along the museum passageways in the fashion of a ramp. Corresponding structures on opposite sides of the passages converge near the ceiling at an acute angle, creating what appears to be the perimeter of a triangle without a base, when viewing from the mouth of the artwork. These frameworks are visually similar to elongated strips of windows, due to the quadrilaterals of negative space outlined by beams. Also, extended along the walls behind the sculpture is an unaltered aerial photograph of the Chicago Skyline, which can be seen through the gaps in the metal structures.
This piece is constructed in a manner that inherently challenges the viewer’s sense of spatial reasoning and physical awareness. This is achieved through two primary factors, the first being the distinctive use of repetition. The qualities of each individual structure are notably similar. Plainly, they are all formed by uncovered metal with a smooth tactile texture cut into a mechanical, grid-like pattern. Balance, pattern, and …show more content…
This introduces the second factor: an unusual sense of organic motion. When viewing a single framework, if one is to visualize that the negative spaces are instead filled in with solid material, an arcing two-dimensional surface can be created. The fact every surface must be curved to a certain degree makes the artwork feel as though it is bending and twisting, which are movements that greatly contrast the mechanical rigidity associated with the materials and internal shapes. The change in angles is further highlighted by the differing values created by reflections of light upon each beam. The culmination of these differences does not allow for harmony, which makes this an ever changing visual