Piano #1 1965

Richard Artschwager made this piano with wood and formica. It’s hard not to see the humor in this piece. I’m drawn to the textures. The grain of the wood is so pronounced, almost cartoonish, making the whole thing feel a bit unreal. It’s like he’s playing with the idea of what’s “real” versus what’s represented, a theme he often explores. The formica, smooth and flat, contrasts nicely with the wood’s natural texture. Look at the black key, how it sits there, a solid, slightly rounded rectangle, just off-center. It’s a simple shape, but it grounds the piece, giving it a sense of balance. It also makes me think of Ellsworth Kelly, another artist who uses simple shapes to great effect. Artschwager’s work often dances between painting and sculpture. He challenges us to see everyday objects in new ways. This piano isn’t just a piano; it’s an idea of a piano, a play on form and material, and an invitation to rethink our relationship with the world around us.