Gregory
“To be hybrid anticipates the future”
In Gregory (Effigy), Noguchi explores themes of hybridity using the abstract language of modern sculpture. It’s a subject he continually explored, influenced by his mixed heritage and the experience of growing up in both Japan and the United States. The dynamic tension of living in between cultures, not fully belonging to either, served as both a source of isolation and inspiration throughout his life.
Title
Gregory
Description
Gregory is inspired by Gregor, the main character in Franz Kafka’s absurdist novella, The Metamorphosis. After waking one morning to find he has become a large insect, Gregor’s life slowly deteriorates as the last remnants of his human life are lost and his family turns on him, burdened by the responsibility of caring for the house’s former breadwinner while hiding him from outsiders. Gregor, though at first casually inconvenienced by his fate, cannot live with the discomfort he has brought to his family and ultimately dies to avoid furthering burdening them further.
Subject
Sculpture
Creator
Date Created
1945, cast 1964
Medium
Extent
Bronze, dark green patina:
67 3/4" x 11 3/8" x 16 (172.1 x 28.9 x 40.6 cm)
Wood base:
11 3/8" x 15 x 18 (28.9 x 38.1 x 45.7 cm)
67 3/4" x 11 3/8" x 16 (172.1 x 28.9 x 40.6 cm)
Wood base:
11 3/8" x 15 x 18 (28.9 x 38.1 x 45.7 cm)
Coverage
Rights
©INFGM
Rights Holder
The Isamu Noguchi Foundation, Inc., 1983
Current collection, 2004
Current collection, 2004
Identifier
Bio_Sculpt011_IN_Gregory
Source
Item sets
