Karen Yank – X

$4,000

SKU: 22945

Artwork Description

X

Dimensions: 36 x 36 x 3″
Year: 2016
Media: steel

Karen Yank – X is one of Yank’s more understated pieces, but is as elegant as the rest. At first glance, it appears that Yank only uses two of her three signature elements, the cross and lines, while forgoing the use of her classic circle. However, the circle is still featured in this piece, however subtly. The ends of the intersecting lines carry a curve to them, and a circular shape can be inferred from these curves.
The immediate and obvious shape of the cross makes frequent appearances in Yank’s works, and is inspired by its rich usage throughout history; this theme dates back to the Stone Age and is as old as civilization itself.
The interacting circle and lines, on the other hand, are representative of the dome of the sky meeting with the boundary of the earth in the form of a horizon line. The two interconnected shapes are consistently seen interacting in Yank’s sculptures, representative of both the relationship between her and her late mentor, Agnes Martin, as well as the union of all elements of the natural world.
Yank is often inspired by the picturesque landscapes of New Mexico, and describes her work as representing not only the nature itself, but rather the emotional impact that one feels when immersed in nature.
Yank primarily works in mixed metals to create her mesmerizing sculptures, citing their strength and durability.
Many of Yank’s award-winning works are featured in museums and galleries throughout the United States. This, along with the large number of public works she has produced, primarily throughout the Southwest, undoubtedly makes her the most established sculptor in the state of New Mexico.
Yank’s work will be featured in an exhibition called “Karen Yank and Agnes Martin: Student and Mentor” at Turner Carroll Gallery in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in the summer of 2018.
Lillie Guo