Large Flat Bird 1957

Curator: This bronze sculpture, titled "Large Flat Bird," was created by Bernard Meadows. Although undated, its form speaks to broader mid-century anxieties. Editor: It looks… weighted. The texture is rough, almost scarred, and that thin neck makes me anxious it's going to topple. Curator: Meadows' war experiences profoundly shaped his artistic vision. The bird, a recurring motif, often symbolizes vulnerability and resilience. The flat, almost shield-like body suggests protection, while the slender neck and head imply fragility. Editor: It's like a primal scream frozen in metal. Makes you wonder what kind of world birthed such a creature. Curator: Exactly. Meadows' work serves as a poignant commentary on the human condition amidst conflict and trauma. Editor: So, it's not just a bird; it's a mirror. Heavy stuff. Curator: Indeed. It invites us to reflect on the enduring tension between strength and vulnerability, both within ourselves and in the world around us. Editor: I'll never look at a pigeon the same way again.