Ken Carlson

Untitled

1992

  • Oxidized copper; plaited
  • 10 1/2 x 12 3/4 x 12 3/4 in. (26.7 x 32.4 x 32.4 cm)
  • Gift of T.H. Crawford, 1992
  • 1992.25.2

glossary terms

oxidizing, plaiting

material

Metal

signature

Carlson 92 in gold ink on base

curator’s statement

Ken Carlson's work explores pattern and patination in copper. His interlaced compositions use plaiting and twisting to create three-dimensional forms and embellishments. In this example, Carson relies on metals to recreate the patterns and textures typically employed in baskets, which are traditionally made of natural and pliable materials.
back to top

object description

The copper vessel is cylindrical and covered with small twisted strips of copper which protrude from the bowl in vertical rows. The rim of the vessel is instead flat, consisting of a wide woven band. The entire piece is patinated and is bright mint green, as is typical of a verdigris patinated finish. The vessel is very springy and flexible, due to its very thin copper lengths and its woven structure.
back to top