Haus 1992

This bronze sculpture, called Haus, is by Leiko Ikemura. I can only imagine the laborious process of working with this heavy metal to construct this building-like form. The gridded lines, particularly in the roof area, are suggestive of domestic space. Below this are markings that might indicate human figures. Above, a row of shapes suggests trees, each with an opening in the trunk, like entrances or windows. The whole thing feels totemic. Ikemura is known for her interest in the human figure and also often combines it with animalistic forms. I see this sculpture as part of a continuing artistic conversation with artists such as Louise Bourgeois and Eva Hesse, who also explore themes of domesticity and the body in their sculptural works. This piece embraces ambiguity and uncertainty, allowing for multiple interpretations.