Goggled Head 1973

Editor: Dame Elisabeth Frink's "Goggled Head," in the Tate collection, is quite striking. The sepia tones and somewhat distressed texture give it a powerful, almost unsettling feel. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The goggles immediately bring to mind ideas of protection, but also, perhaps, of surveillance or control. Consider how the mask or the helmet has been used throughout history, not just for defense but also to dehumanize or anonymize the wearer. Frink's work often explores themes of masculinity and power. Does the figure remind you of any specific historical or literary figure? Editor: I hadn’t thought of it that way. Now I’m seeing how the goggles become less about sight and more about hiding something. Thanks for that insight!