Grande Nature Morte 1987

Nancy Graves made this sculpture, Grande Nature Morte, from welded and painted steel and bronze using the lost-wax casting technique. Graves was fascinated by the inherent qualities of metal: its strength, malleability, and potential for transformation. She used welding to construct the armature of the sculpture, creating a dynamic framework of lines and planes. The lost-wax casting process allowed Graves to translate ephemeral forms into durable bronze elements, preserving the texture and detail of the original molds. The sculpture’s overall aesthetic emphasizes process, inviting viewers to consider the amount of work involved in its production and the potential of art to transcend conventional boundaries. Grande Nature Morte challenges the traditional hierarchy of art and craft, inviting us to reconsider our preconceptions about art and its relationship to everyday life.