Untitled 1966

Editor: This intriguing work is an Untitled mixed-media sculpture by Angelo de Sousa, created in 1966. It seems to be made of metal and paper. I'm struck by the contrast between the rigid geometric forms and the potential fragility of the materials. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Notice the labor evident in this construction. Sousa’s choice to work with common, industrial materials, bending and joining metal and paper, challenges the conventional hierarchy between fine art and craft. We should be thinking about the means of production here. How does this material manipulation communicate with its audience? Editor: So you're saying the art itself is almost a form of…commentary, given the industrial materials? Is it trying to say something about art’s relationship with labor? Curator: Precisely. It asks us to consider the socioeconomic implications of artmaking. What was the context of production? 1966, during a period of increasing industrialization and shifting societal values. The artist employs Constructivist principles of abstraction by removing overtly sentimental symbolism, and, instead, emphasizes construction of the sculpture and consumption of material. How does it speak to ideas about value? Editor: So, considering it’s made of industrial materials available to all and uses geometric forms, does it imply art is for everyone or that artistic production should be viewed under the same light as manufacturing goods? Curator: Yes, by using mass-produced components and construction techniques, Sousa democratizes artistic production. This connects to social progress and challenges notions that equate “fine art” with elevated craftsmanship. Consider what materials and objects we consider art now and what social statements they reflect. Editor: I hadn’t thought of the social implications inherent in material selection! That really gives me a new lens to view not only this artwork through but everything in the museum. Curator: Absolutely. Thinking critically about materials will change how you interact with the world.