The Tilted Head at Central Park

The Tilted Head at Central Park

The human body has always been a fascination for many artists. It has been a source of inspiration, study, and analysis. If we could understand the body, we could probably comprehend the mystery that it embodies and develops the creativity that comes from that knowledge.

Mark Manders, an accomplished contemporary artist from the Netherlands, has always been interested in the human figure, especially the head which has been a significant element represented in his work throughout his career. Manders created an impressive art installation, a thirteen feet tall remarkable piece called Tilted Head, commissioned by the Public Art Fund and exhibit at the Doris C. Freedman Plaza in New York City. This large-scale sculpture that looks like an incomplete half-head made by clay but is actually of cast bronze, is one of the latest artworks that the city is displaying for locals and visitors, as part of their commitment to bring art into public places.

The massive sculpture appears to be a work still in progress or abandoned in a studio, a clear distinction of the labor that entails an installation of that magnitude. Tilted Head has its eyes closed, an expression of tranquility and the upper third of the face is cut. Other elements conforming the piece are wooden planks on the top, two chairs and a suitcase smaller than the installation can be seen in the back. All these components in different sizes have a purpose as stated in the Public Art Fund site “this shift in scale, unexplained objects, and trompe l’oeil bronze effect alter our perception and spark the imagination.”

As most of Manders’ work Tilted Head is his way to write with objects, a transition from his initial interest to be a writer in his younger years to a fascination with objects that evolved in the use of as a language of creativity and art. The result is a career filled with incredible sculptures and art pieces that speak to the public rather through the senses than through the written word. An invitation to the viewer to use their ingenuity and interpretations to formulate their own conclusions about his art.

Central Park as the backdrop of Tilted Head creates a clear contrast between the calm and simplicity of the sculpture against the color, the chaos and vibrancy of the park, making the scenery a compelling New York City spot and photo postal that visitors can experience.

Tilted Head is available for viewing until September 1st, 2019 at the Doris C. Freedman Plaza at the 60th street and Fifth Avenue, Central Park, New York City.

Written by Monica Herrera