Details

Title

Two Lines Oblique, Atlanta

Artist/Maker

George Rickey (American, 1907–2002)

Date

1969

Medium

Stainless steel

Dimensions

420 inches

Credit

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Simon S. Selig, Jr. in memory of Benjamin J. Massell with generous cooperation of the artist and Staempfli Gallery, New York, 1969

Accession #

69.2

On View

Currently not on view

Together with Alexander Calder, George Rickey helped pioneer kinetic sculpture in American art. Unlike the lighthearted spirit of Calder’s work, however, Rickey’s geometric-heavy sculptures possess a more severe, mechanic feel. This was likely the result of his work with engineers to improve aircraft weaponry during World War II. Inspired by his early involvement with science and technology, Rickey sought to set geometric forms in motion. Two Lines Oblique, Atlanta comprises several elegantly and perfectly balanced arms that twist and spin effortlessly in the wind.

Image Copyright

© Estate of George Rickey/VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York