Emerging

In the vast landscape of contemporary sculpture, few works command attention with the raw emotional power of “Ecstasy” — a monumental installation that depicts a human figure in a dynamic state of transformation. Karen Cusolito is best known for her Crude Awakening series, which features 8 humanoid sculptures made of salvaged and recycled steel, all surrounding a 99-ft tall wooden oil derrick in various positions of prostration, worship, and exaltation. The oil derrick was set on fire for the Burning Man Festival in 2007, resulting in a memorable firework and fire display.

Ecstasy (2007) is one of the 8 metal figures from Crude Awakening. A staggering 30-ft tall and 9 tons heavy, the piece is constructed with tightly-wound steel to create a female silhouette with hanging chains to represent flowing hair. The technical achievement of the piece cannot be overlooked. Creating a sense of organic movement and anatomical accuracy using rigid, reclaimed materials requires tremendous skill and vision. The artist has allowed the original character of each component to remain visible—splintered wood retains its grain, metal its patina—creating a rich textural landscape that rewards close inspection. There is an interesting juxtaposition in Cusolito’s use of materials such as steel to depict the soft textures and curves of the human form and the organic, flowing shape of hair. Despite its steel components, the piece is incredibly humanistic; a closer looks reveals details such as a recognizable rib cage and the illusion of muscles through looped steel. The female form in Ecstasy is also emotive, with an arched back and an elongated neck thrown back in passion. At dusk, illumination from her hands casts a soft glow on her shoulders, neck, and head, further emphasizing feelings of passion and warmth.

Ultimately, this sculpture stands as a testament to human resilience—our capacity to transform destruction into creation, waste into wonder. In repurposing discarded materials into a celebration of the human form, the artist reminds us of our own adaptability and persistence. In witnessing this figure’s emergence—or perhaps dissolution—we contemplate our own cycles of growth, decay, and regeneration. In an age characterized by environmental anxiety and technological acceleration, this sculpture stands as a quiet reminder of human ingenuity and adaptation. From the discarded remnants of yesterday, we continuously fashion new possibilities for tomorrow—always reaching, always emerging.

How do you feel about Cusolito’s statue?

Artwork: Karen Cusolito

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Summary

Article Name

Emerging

Description

In witnessing this figure's emergence—or perhaps dissolution—we contemplate our own cycles of growth, decay, and regeneration.

Author

Alex, Madison Lo

Publisher Name

PixelleCo

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