Nature's example provided a powerful array of possibilities for artists working in the aftermath of Minimalism, even though the results may bear little resemblance to their source of inspiration.
About Track 4: Force of Nature
The search for alternatives to Minimalism has led artists to explore a range of materials and processes associated with nature. Lynda Benglis’ polyurethane pours allowed the force of gravity to shape her sculpture. To instill the sensation of a specific place in viewers, Christopher Wilmarth focused on the elusive atmospheric qualities of light and space, while Bosco Sodi constructed a cube with bricks formed from the earth of Oaxaca, Mexico. Although Maren Hassinger began using steel rope initially because it resembled a variety of natural forms, she has also described the importance of nature to her work in political terms, as “using it to talk about equality:” “If we can share the sky, we can share other things.”
Audio Guides
Hear different perspectives on works in Track 4: Force of Nature.
Maren Hassinger on Nature
Maren Hassinger on Field
Maren Hassinger on Materials: Wire Rope
Remix
Discover more about sculpture. Find bonus content like video tours, inspiration playlists, and insights from curators, educators, and living artists.
![](/Portals/0/Documents/Read-Watch/mixtape-tracks-best-of.jpg)
Best of Force of Nature
Bringing together the greatest hits of Track 4: Force of Nature artists and themes.
Video: Who is Maren Hassinger?
Video: Lynda Benglis as a Panelist on 'Off the Pedestal: Women Artists in Art Museums'
Article: Overview of Bosco Sodi: New Collection Addition
Activity: Create a Strand Poem Inspired by Icicles
![](/Portals/0/Documents/Read-Watch/mixtape-tracks-deep-dive.jpg)
Deep Dive
Top recommendations to dig deeper into your favorite artworks and art trends.
Video: Artist Talk with Maren Hassinger
Video: Emotive Power within the Essential Crudeness of Material: Artist Bosco Sodi
Shelf Life: Artist Matthew Ronay on Finding Inspiration in Nature
![](/Portals/0/Documents/Read-Watch/mixtape-track-educator-picks.jpg)
Educator Picks
Suggested resources for families, educators, and the young at heart.
Activity: Create a Strand Poem
Activity: Sound is a Color with Artist Shamsy Roomiani
Video: Wall Flowers Art Activity with Artist Natalie Macellaio
Video: Talking About Art with Your Kid, Featuring Lynda Benglis' Quartered Meteor
Get Inspired
![](/Portals/0/Documents/Read-Watch/Mixtape-Track4-spotify-300x300.jpg?ver=2021-01-22-215557-300)
Listen to a music playlist inspired by artworks in Track 4: Force of Nature.
Listen on Spotify
Explore the Collection
- Maren Hassinger, Field, 1989
- Bosco Sodi, Muro, 2017
- Christopher Wilmarth, Long Deeps, LA, 1975
- Lynda Benglis, Quartered Meteor, 1969/1975/2018 (long-term loan)
- Isaac Witkin, Volution, 1964 (long-term loan)