Z-DNA
Tom Otterness
2007
MATERIAL: metal: bronze
DIMENSIONS: overall: 47 in x 44 in x 8 in
EDITION: Edition of 5, A/P 1/2
CREDIT: Grounds For Sculpture, Gift of The Seward Johnson Atelier
© Artist or Artist's Estate
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Tom Otterness has created an interpretation of the 'Z-DNA', one of the many possible double helical structures of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), for the front entrance of Grounds For Sculpture. It is a left-handed double helical form of DNA that winds to the left instead of the right, like the more common B-DNA.
Widely known for his whimsical and subversive sculptures, Otterness’ works have a unique style and voice. Upon first sight, the viewer experiences an immediate attraction and is drawn in by the somehow familiar, cartoon-like forms. With closer inspection, a deeper message is revealed as the characters act out scenes that refer to various social and political commentaries. Otterness’ sculptures use a language of simplified, easy-going, yet well-crafted form to which people relate and find intriguing. Through them, often overlooked discourses of the human condition are opened up to be discussed and pondered.