Common Groins
- Artist:
- Type: Sculpture
- Medium: Mixed media
- Production Date:
- Period:
- 2000s
- Description: Using forms derived from mathematical models, the sculptures trace out three different kinds of architectural arch forms in space. The three different designs depicting intersecting arches are also known as ‘groin vaults.‘ They have been made by combining traditional and contemporary materials and processes: 3-D printing and threading with cordage made from nettle fibre.
The use of natural fibres ‘woven‘ into the forms introduces an ancient, hand-working technique to disrupt the scientific method displayed in the original mathematical models which were commissioned by the Science Museum, London in 1872. These models, made to illustrate research and for use in teaching, influenced the mid-20th Century sculpture of the group of avant-garde artists which included Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth.
From Science Museum website:
Writing in 1968, [Henry] Moore revealed:
‘Undoubtedly the source of my stringed figures was the Science Museum ‘ I was fascinated by the mathematical models I saw there.‘ - Dimensions: There are five items in total.
One item is unique. It measures 17cm H and 23cm for each other width.
Two items identical in size and shape with a general rectangular/oblong shape measure: 17cm H x 22.5cm long x 12cm w
Two items identical in size and shape consisting of triangles with a base length of 30cm, a top and other lengths of 30cm, and a height of 17cm. - Digital Copy:A digital copy exists.
- Location: Store
- Accession Number: 2025.14
- Contact: University of Stirling Art Collection
