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Humanóides

Ernesto Neto

Date
2002
Medium
Polyamide fabric, styrofoam pellets, herbs
Dimension
Overall dimensions variable
Credit

TBA21 Thyssen-Bornemisza Art Contemporary Collection

This artwork is part of the donation and long-term loan from TBA21 to the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza.

Details

Ernesto Neto’s work reflects the participatory trend amongst Brazilian artists during the 1960s and 70s that is frequently associated with Lygia Clark and Hélio Oiticica. Neto’s morbid sculptures and installations consist of elastic nylon or polyamide fabric, stitched into various organic shapes, which unfold in a womblike fashion around the spectator.


Ernesto Neto comments that his sculptures suggest "fertility, sexuality, touching, and kissing", as well as atmospheric associations that arise out of the particular spatial presence and detailed texture of the surfaces.

Humanóides are sculptures filled with Styrofoam balls that allude to the figure of the human body. The visitor is invited to wear and explore them as implements for sitting or bodily extensions. There are male and female versions, which include primary sexual organs.

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