Shapiro, Joel

Joel Shapiro is known for his works of art made of cast iron, bronze, and wood, which consist of beam- or cuboid-shaped elements and do not initially reveal any real form. Upon closer inspection, however, especially in his more recent sculptures, one recognizes human bodies that – in a highly stylized form – are performing a dancing, jumping, or running movement and seem to be frozen in it. 

Since the artist depicts neither faces nor hands or anatomical details, the figures emerge more from their posture and dynamics than from realistic representation. Depending on their perspective, viewers are free to interpret the sculptures as they wish. This is further emphasized by the fact that almost all of Shapiro’s works are untitled.