Ancestor

Ancestor is a black granite sculpture in Lynden Sculpture Garden featuring contrasting surfaces where smooth polished areas meet rough natural stone segments. The interplay between these textures creates the geometric patterns that define its form.

Japanese artist Masayuki Nagare created this monumental work in 1965 after spending seven years studying traditional craftsmanship methods throughout Japan. This deep preparation shaped his approach to the sculpture.

The sculpture brings together Japanese design principles and modern form, shaped by the artist's practice as a Zen Buddhist. Stone here becomes a partner in creation rather than merely a material to reshape.

The sculpture sits within the 40-acre grounds of Lynden Sculpture Garden at 2145 West Brown Deer Road in Milwaukee. The landscape setting allows you to walk around and view it from multiple angles with ample parking available.

The natural characteristics of the stone determined the sculpture's final form based on Nagare's belief that stones contain their own spirit. This philosophy means the artist revealed the stone's inner essence rather than imposing a preconceived design.

Location: Milwaukee

Inception: 1965

Creator: Masayuki Nagare

GPS coordinates: 43.17656,-87.93661

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:44