Contrapuntal Forms (Hepworth) facts for kids
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Contrapuntal Forms is a famous stone sculpture made by Barbara Hepworth. It was one of her first big public artworks. She created it in 1950–51 for a special event called the Festival of Britain in London. The sculpture was placed outside the Dome of Discovery on the South Bank.
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What is Contrapuntal Forms?
About the Sculpture
Contrapuntal Forms is a large sculpture that stands about 3 meters (120 inches) tall. It is carved from a beautiful blue limestone rock found in County Galway, Ireland. The artwork shows two figures that are "semi-abstracted." This means they look a bit like people, but they are also simplified shapes, not perfectly realistic.
This sculpture was one of two pieces Barbara Hepworth made for the Festival of Britain. The other one was a spinning artwork called Turning Forms.
Where Did It Go After the Festival?
The Arts Council of Great Britain asked Barbara Hepworth to create this sculpture. After the Festival of Britain ended, the Arts Council gave Contrapuntal Forms to the new town of Harlow in Essex. This happened in 1953.
It was the very first artwork that the Harlow Art Trust bought for the town. The sculpture is still located in Harlow today, in an area called Glebelands.
Why is This Sculpture Important?
Contrapuntal Forms is considered an important piece of art. In April 1998, it was given a special status called "Grade II listed." This means it is a building or structure of special interest that should be protected. This status is recorded on the National Heritage List for England.
