Thebes

1966
Tucker, William
The anonymous, smooth surfaces of this sculpture do not bear any trace of the artist's hand. The idea and the existence of the piece are separate from any physical relationship with the author, which may account for the independence and aloof character of this work. It has a disconcerting effect, which is achieved in part by its relationship to the horizontal floor and vertical axis of the walls. The tilting countenance of the orange and yellow forms appears to be pushing against the solid dark brown form, perhaps implying, visually at least, a tenuous link with the horizontal ground. A clue to this visual reality may lie in part in the strong colour relationship of each until, rather than its physical presence. The colours suggest both a sense of weight and of weightlessness. The heavy sensation of the dark brown form on the floor and the mid-weight feel of the orange form appear to lock the yellow form in position. The yellow seems quite slight in comparison. This arrangement gives the sensation of both resistance and support. Judith Winter, 'William Tucker: Six Sculptures', Spotlight from the Arts Council Collection broadsheet, 1995
  • Artwork Details: 121.9 x 137.2 x 203.2cm
  • Edition:
  • Material description: paint on wood
  • Credit line: © the artist
  • Theme: Abstract
  • Medium:
  • Accession number: AC 765

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The Arts Council Collection is the UK's most widely seen collection of modern and contemporary art.

With more than 8,000 works by over 2,000 artists, it can be seen in exhibitions and public displays across the country and beyond. This website offers unprecedented access to the Collection, and information about each work can be found on this site.