Preserving Barbara Hepworth's Legacy: The Story of Sculpture with Colour
A unique wooden sculpture by the renowned abstract artist Barbara Hepworth has been preserved for the nation following a successful fundraising campaign that raised £3.8m. The sculpture, titled Sculpture with Colour (Oval Form) Pale Blue and Red, was created in 1943 and is considered a significant piece in Hepworth's career. It is now part of the UK's national collection and will be displayed at the Hepworth Wakefield in West Yorkshire, Hepworth's hometown.
Barbara Hepworth, known for her innovative stringed works, made Sculpture with Colour during her time in St Ives, where she moved during World War II. The sculpture, featuring multicolored strings against a pale blue interior, reflects Hepworth's experiences of the Cornish landscape. With limited resources and studio space, Hepworth's creation of this piece marked a pivotal moment in her artistic journey.
The acquisition of Sculpture with Colour was made possible through over 2,800 public donations and significant grants, including contributions from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Art Fund. The addition of this artwork to The Hepworth Wakefield's collection will enrich the museum's ability to showcase Hepworth's pioneering creativity and artistic legacy.
Olivia Colling, the interim director of The Hepworth Wakefield, expressed gratitude for the support that enabled the sculpture to become part of a public art collection. Richard Deacon, an artist and Art Fund trustee, praised the significance of Sculpture with Colour and highlighted the importance of its preservation in a public collection for the benefit of future generations.
In conclusion, the successful preservation of Barbara Hepworth's Sculpture with Colour (Oval Form) Pale Blue and Red is a testament to the collaborative effort to safeguard and celebrate the work of a visionary artist. Its inclusion in the national collection at The Hepworth Wakefield ensures that Hepworth's legacy will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.