Richard Serra | Torqued Ellipse IV (1998)

The video discusses Richard Serra's artistic process in creating the sculpture Torqued Ellipse IV. Serra was inspired by the lack of curved architecture in cities dominated by right angles. He wanted to create a form that would challenge perceptions and create a sense of continuity. The sculpture appears to change shape as viewers move around it, creating a dynamic experience. Serra's initial idea for the sculpture came from a misinterpretation of an ellipse in a church in Rome. He worked with aerospace engineers to develop the technology needed to bend steel into the twisted form he envisioned. The process took years to perfect, with challenges such as breaking a large steel plate during the initial attempts. The video highlights the innovative use of steel and the exploration of its potential by artists like Serra.

Creators/Contributors

• Richard Serra