Christian Petersen

Object NamePortrait Sculpture

Artist / MakerArtist is Sarah Grant (American, b. 1953)

Manufacturer Sticks, Inc. (America (Des Moines, IA), founded 1985)

Date2000

OriginUSA

MediumBurned and engraved wood with acrylic paint

Dimensions156 x 42 x 42 in. (396.2 x 106.7 x 106.7 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineGift of Sticks, Inc. to celebrate the Brunnier's 25th Anniversary. In the Permanent Collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object numberU2000.69

Status

On view

Collections

CultureAmerican

Label TextThis portrait sculpture of Christian Petersen was made to commemorate the artist and his artistic legacy at Iowa State University. Always wearing a crisp white shirt with tie, Petersen sculpted with clay and limestone, then ventured into the classroom to teach Iowa State students. He was a man of few words, especially those he recorded himself. However, his wife Charlotte loved language and had much to say about him. The quotes inscribed on the sculpture are mostly the words of Charlotte about her artist husband, or quotes she preserved about him. The heroic scale of the sculpture and the written words provide insights into the artistry and the personality of Christian Petersen. Learn more about the Art on Campus Collection: www.museums.iastate.edu

Locations