Sculpture
Photo: via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.5
Sculpture is a three-dimensional art genre that can take several forms including statues, busts, and reliefs. Sculptures embody the concepts of volume and space. Unlike a drawing or a photograph, they are objects that are often described as round because you can walk around them, view them from above, or (if they're small enough), pick them up and look at the bottom.
UnderstandSculpture is a very old form of artistic expression. Some of the most valued sculptures are from ancient cultures that existed thousands of years ago, sometimes before the dawn of writing or drawing.
HistorySome of the world's most interesting sculptures are those that puzzle and mystify us because the people who created them have long ago perished into the realm of archaeology.
MuseumsSculptures are such an integral part of the visual arts that every major art museum in the world will have some good sculptures. Some that stand out are:
Sculpture gardensSculptures are frequently displayed in outdoor settings. Many art museums, grand houses, and royal residences have elaborate gardens that include any number of statues or other sculptures.
MemorialsMany monuments and memorials either are, or contain statues or other types of sculpture. Some of the world's most iconic examples are:
FountainsEspecially in Europe, fountains often feature one or more sculptures, some of which can be pretty elaborate. Some public fountains are among the most iconic attractions of various European cities.
Oddities" These may be considered "visionary art". Sometimes these become tourist attractions in their own right.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Sculpture" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: The Thinker close.jpg, CC BY 2.5 via Wikimedia Commons