INT_S6_L2_Relief Sculptures

Interactive presentation

Louise Nevelson

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Louise Nevelson - Biography

Source: Alamy. Louise Nevelson, American Artist, 1967

• Born 23rd September 1899 in Poltava Governorate of the Russian Empire (known today as Kyiv Oblast in Ukraine).
• Her family immigrated to the USA in 1905.
• She was known as an American sculptor.
• She is most famous for her large, wooden sculptures that were often one colour.
• She died 17th April 1988 in New York City.

© Kapow™ 2025

Art and design

Assemblage

Assemblage is an art term sometimes used to categorise Nevelson’s work.

Think….

• What does ‘assemblage’ mean?
• Why is Nevelson’s work called an assemblage?

Little Triptych Wall, 1960© ARS, NY and DACS, London 2023

© Kapow™ 2025

Art and design

Look closely

• What shapes can you see?
• Can you identify any materials or objects that are being repurposed in this sculpture?

Little Triptych Wall, 1960© ARS, NY and DACS, London 2023

© Kapow™ 2025

Art and design

Atmosphere and environment

Nevelson created a collection of large scale sculptures made from steel called ‘Atmosphere and environment’. These were different to her wooden sculptures, but were similar in style.Why did she call the collection 'Atmosphere & environment?'

Atmosphere and Environment X, 1969-70© ARS, NY and DACS, London 2023.

© Kapow™ 2025

Art and design

Louise Nevelson Plaza, New York

• It was the first public space to be named after an artist in New York City.

• There are seven sculptures that make up what is called the ‘Shadows and Flags' collection. These are made from steel and painted black; a feature of Nevelson’s work.

• The plaza was created in 1977 and was a significant achievement for a female artist in America.

© Kapow™ 2025

Art and design