Contrapuntal Forms, Grade II listed sculpture in Harlow, England
Contrapuntal Forms is a stone sculpture in Harlow carved from blue limestone that portrays two abstract human figures in conversation with one another. The pair of forms face each other and create a sense of dialogue through their opposing positions.
This work was originally created in 1951 for the Festival of Britain and displayed at the Dome of Discovery in London. It was later moved to Harlow where it now stands as a protected heritage monument.
The limestone figures represent Barbara Hepworth's interpretation of abstract forms, marking her first major public commission in the British art landscape.
The sculpture is located at Glebelands and is surrounded by various green spaces and public artworks throughout Harlow. Visitors can view the work year-round in its outdoor setting.
The two stone figures were carved from blue limestone quarried in County Galway, Ireland, linking British art with Irish natural resources. This material choice gives the work a cross-border dimension that often goes unnoticed by passing visitors.
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