Nicolaus Widerberg’s figure sculpture is timeless whether it is made in bronze, granite, or more recently glass. Predominantly still and monolithic, it unites traditions as diverse as pre-classical Greek and the elongated presences of Giacometti. Sometimes it seems as if in developing a stubbornly private form of neoclassicism Widerberg has insouciantly by-passed a century of modernism and its aftermath.
Yet the works are “wholly of today” as described by Her Majesty Queen Sonja of Norway, who also has described Widerberg’s work by saying, “It seems natural that he has a particular affinity for the Norwegian granite rock which is the very material our country is made from. The sense of strength is just as important for the expression of these figures as their slender gracefulness. It is a special experience to see a Widerberg figure like a mythical creature or a strange idol half hidden by ice and snow still emerging out as a heroic human message in the middle of our harsh terrain.”
Nicolaus Widerberg was born in Oslo in 1960, the son of Frans Widerberg the distinguished Norwegian painter. After graduating form the Academy of Art in Oslo, he continued his studies in France and Italy and in 1991 received a state scholarship. He has participated in numerous group shows in Scandinavia and since 1984 has held many one-man exhibitions at Norway’s major public and private galleries. Winning the open competition for the monument to Thor Heyerdahl in 1989 marked a significant turning point in Widerberg’s career. By competing and winning many significant public commissions for large-scale sculpture, he rapidly established himself in both Scandinavia and Britain. Public commissions have been flowing ever since.
Grounds For Sculpture, a 35-acre sculpture park and museum, has captivated visitors since 1992, and has only gained in popularity as more of the public discovers its tranquil setting and engaging sculpture. Indoor exhibits of emerging and well-known artists are shown throughout the year in two expansive, glass-walled buildings that were once exhibit halls for the New Jersey State Fair. Over 200 contemporary sculptures, from monumental to smaller scale, can be found on the beautifully landscaped grounds.
When: Sunday, January 9 – Sunday, May 1, 2005
Where: Grounds For Sculpture, 18 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton, New Jersey
Info: (609) 586-0616 or info@groundsforsculpture.org