Walking Man II
Image courtesy of
The National Gallery of Art, U.S.A
Nationality:
Swiss
Movement:
Surrealism
Education:
The School of Arts and Crafts , Geneva; Ecole de la Grande Chaumiére, Paris
Life/Lifestyle:
Born in 1901 in Stampa, Switzerland, Alberto Giacometti had artistic intentions and influences since he was a child. His interest in art is partially influenced by his Post Impressionist father, Giovanni, who tutored him in art as a child. After a period of travelling and studying, Giacometti came into contact with Surrealist art dealer Pierre Loeb in Paris. This meeting resulted in an invitation to join the surrealist group, where he became a key member among the sculptors. In the mid-1930's, he stopped exhibiting and as war broke out he moved from Paris back to Switzerland. Giacometti's health began in deteriorate during the 1960's and he died of heart disease in 1966.
Style/Significance:
Even as a teen, Giacometti had a problem with making things smaller than they actually are. He is best known for his sculptures of elongated figure—tall and thin in appearance. The problem that he had with his sculptures was that they became smaller and smaller as he worked, and his resolution was exaggeration on a large scale. His later work had the influence of Existentialist philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre, as the figure, in painting and sculpture, is overwhelmed by the space around it.
Famous Pieces:
Man Walking
Man Pointing
