As politicians spin their web of confusion and Des Moines, Iowa becomes the hub of political activity, ditch politics and find the giant spider.
Giant spider? What spider?
Des Moines is home to one of Louise Bourgeois famous sculptures, Spider.
SPIDER (1997) by Louise Bourgeois (American, born France, 1911-2010), is on view at Mary and John Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines, Iowa (photo from dsmpublicartfoundation.org)
Spider is a sculpture by Louise Bourgeois (nicknamed the Spiderwoman) executed in 1996 as an edition of six and cast in 1997. Louise is considered one of this century’s most distinguished artists though not officially recognized until she was in her 70’s.
During her productive seventy-year career, Bourgeois’ installations, sculptures, drawings and material-works focused upon notions of fear, anxiety, jealousy and love. Her big, black spider-sculptures have become synonymous with her name.
Why the spider?
“The spider—why the spider? Because
my best friend was my mother and she
was deliberate, clever, patient, soothing,
reasonable, dainty, subtle, indispensable,
neat, and as useful as a spider.”
The Biggest Spider – Maman
Maman, the largest spider created by Louise is amongst the world’s largest, measuring over 30 ft high and over 33 ft wide, with a sac containing 26 marble eggs. This sculpture has a very personal meaning for Louise and the story is fascinating – click here to read An Unusual Talent – The Spider Lady
On a political note the Iowa caucuses will be held on Monday, Feb. 1, 2016, followed by the New Hampshire primary on Feb. 9, the Nevada caucuses on Feb. 20, and the South Carolina primary on Feb. 27. All other states can hold their primaries any time from March 1 through June.
However, I think you will find more meaning by visiting the art these cities have to offer. Next, we’ll take a look at famous art from New Hampshire.
