Past Exhibit

Transcendental Modernism

deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum

Lincoln

A view of the exhibit,

Drawn primarily from deCordova’s permanent collection, Transcendental Modernism connects to the nearby exhibition Visionary New England, while focusing on artistic developments in Massachusetts from the 1940s through the 1990s. Veering away from dominant narratives of modern art as abstract, secular, and self-referential, Transcendental Modernism advances an understanding of vanguard art in Massachusetts based on intersectional social progress and interdisciplinary artistic pursuits. The exhibition examines the spiritual commitments of Boston Expressionists, the presence of Afrofuturism in Boston, and utopian collaborations between artists and scientists.

The exhibition is organized by Sam Adams, Koch Curatorial Fellow.

Art On View

Installation View, "Transcendental Modernism" On View October 8, 2020 - March 14, 2021. Image Courtesy of Julia Featheringill

Hyman Bloom (1913–2009), "The Harpies", 1947, oil on canvas, 35 1/4 × 55 1/2 in. Collection of deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum: Gift of the Estate of Dr. and Mrs. Abraham Pollen, by exchange.

Installation View, "Transcendental Modernism" On View October 8, 2020 - March 14, 2021. Image Courtesy of Julia Featheringill

Harold Tovish (1921-2008), "Skull", 1977-1979, bronze, 7 ¾ x 10 x 5 ½ in. Collection of deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum: Gift of the Children of Harold Tovish.

Installation View, "Transcendental Modernism" On View October 8, 2020 - March 14, 2021. Image Courtesy of Julia Featheringill

Harold Tovish, Downfall, 1984, mixed media, 32 ½ × 60 ½ inches. Gift of the artist. Installation view of Transcendental Modernism (October 8, 2020 – March 14, 2021) at deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, Lincoln, MA. Photograph by Julia Featheringill.