Italian sculptor Lorenzo Quinn’s massive new sculpture, ‘Support,’ is a stark warning on the impact of rising sea levels. The artwork, which depicts two larger-than-life hands rising from the water, supports the Ca’ Sagredo Hotel in Venice, Italy. The sculpture serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its potential consequences.
Background of the Artist
Lorenzo Quinn is a renowned sculptor known for his thought-provoking and emotive works of art. Born in Rome in 1966, he comes from a family of artists – his father, also a well-known artist, inspired Quinn to pursue a career in the arts. Quinn has become internationally recognized for his sculptures that explore themes such as love, family, and humanity’s relationship with the environment.
The Concept and Message
The monumental sculpture, ‘Support,’ was unveiled during the 2017 Venice Biennale and quickly gained attention for its powerful and timely message. The hands, which are an enlargement of Quinn’s own hands, appear to rise from the Grand Canal, cradling the historic Ca’ Sagredo Hotel. The artist intended for the sculpture to represent the importance of human intervention in addressing the pressing issue of rising sea levels, particularly in cities like Venice that are at risk of disappearing due to climate change.
Quinn’s Artistic Process
Quinn’s process for creating ‘Support’ involved the use of cutting-edge technology, including 3D scanning and printing, to accurately reproduce his own hands on a monumental scale. The sculpture, made from resin, steel, and bronze, required meticulous engineering to ensure its stability and ability to support the weight of the hotel. The result is a visually stunning and emotionally impactful piece of art that captivates viewers and prompts them to consider the consequences of environmental neglect.
The Impact of Rising Sea Levels
The sculpture acts as a poignant reminder of the real and immediate threat posed by rising sea levels. Venice is particularly susceptible to the effects of climate change, with the historic city experiencing regular flooding and the gradual erosion of its foundations. Around the world, coastal communities face similar challenges as the sea continues to encroach on inhabited areas, displacing populations and causing extensive damage to infrastructure.
Art as a Tool for Environmental Advocacy
Quinn’s ‘Support’ is a testament to the power of art as a means of raising awareness and spurring action on critical issues. By placing the sculpture in a highly visible location in Venice, the artist effectively engages the public and prompts reflection on the consequences of inaction in the face of climate change. Through his art, Quinn advocates for greater attention to be paid to the preservation of vulnerable coastal cities and the mitigation of the impact of rising sea levels.
Conclusion
In ‘Support,’ Lorenzo Quinn has created a visually stunning and conceptually profound sculpture that serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address the impact of rising sea levels. By leveraging his artistic talents, Quinn has effectively communicated a message that resonates with people around the world. Through his work, he encourages viewers to consider the consequences of environmental neglect and to take meaningful steps towards preservation and sustainability. As sea levels continue to rise, ‘Support’ stands as a symbol of hope and a call to action for protecting our planet and its vulnerable ecosystems.
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