Ken Unsworth’s Suspended Stone Circle is a work of elegance, simplicity, and profound visual impact. Part of a series of creations using river stones collected by Unsworth himself, this piece stands as a testament to his unique blend of natural and geometric artistry.
Unsworth’s fascination with river stones led him to create a group of works centered around these naturally smoothed and shaped materials. He meticulously collected each stone, arranging them in striking suspension formations. This particular piece has been exhibited at notable venues such as the Venice Biennale in 1978 and has been installed at the Sculpture Triennale in Melbourne, as well as at the ‘Construction in Process in the Art of the Seventies’ exhibition in Lodz, Poland, in 1981.
A Closer Look at Suspended Stone Circle
The Suspended Stone Circle is simple in form but stunning in its essence. Imagine a large ring, two and a half meters in diameter, composed of river stones suspended from poles. The stones hover just off the ground, creating a sense of delicate balance.
What makes Unsworth’s work particularly compelling is how he marries the natural with the geometric. The stones, shaped by the course of time and nature, are arranged in a classic geometric formation. The wires that suspend these stones draw an intricate pattern in the air, balancing the work between the mundane and the magical.
Visually, the Suspended Stone Circle is captivating. The arrangement of stones in a precise circle creates a stark contrast with their organic, time-worn shapes. This juxtaposition is further amplified by the suspension from poles, which allows the circle to hover ethereally above the ground. The wires contribute to the aesthetic, forming a delicate web that adds to the artwork’s sense of suspension and fragility.
Ken Unsworth’s Legacy
Ken Unsworth’s work, particularly the Suspended Stone Circle, continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. His ability to transform everyday materials into profound artistic statements speaks to his talent and vision. The Suspended Stone Circle is not just an art piece; it’s a conversation between nature, geometry, and the viewer.
Ken Unsworth’s Suspended Stone Circle is a brilliant example of how simplicity can lead to profound visual impact. By using natural materials in geometric formations, Unsworth creates works that hover between the mundane and the magical. If you haven’t yet experienced the Suspended Stone Circle, it’s a must-see for any art enthusiast.
