“Stop and observe "Krach," a dynamic sculpture that captures a moment of intense, almost violent energy through fragmented forms and rough textures. It's a powerful visual representation of a "crash" or "noise," inviting you to feel the impact.”
A jarring, almost explosive scene unfolds in Philip West's sculpture, "Krach." A figure, seemingly mid-leap or mid-fall, is caught in a moment of intense, almost violent energy. The work's title, German for "crash" or "noise," perfectly encapsulates the visual chaos. The fragmented forms, crafted from papier-mâché, acrylic, gouache, and plastic, suggest a body in motion, perhaps even disintegrating under pressure. The rough, textured surfaces and sharp angles contribute to a sense of urgency and disquiet. This isn't a serene portrait; it's a raw, visceral experience of movement and impact, inviting viewers to ponder the nature of disruption and the human form's vulnerability.
- Artist
- Philip West
- Date
- 1987
- Medium
- Papier-mâché, acrylic, gouache, plastic
- Location
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Dimensions
- 118 × 128 × 40 cm (46 1/2 × 50 1/2 × 15 3/4 in.); Pedestal: 80 × 60 × 60 cm (31 1/2 × 23 3/4 × 23 3/4 in.)
- Collection
- Contemporary Art
- Credit line
- Through prior gift of Joseph Winterbotham; Claire and Gordon Prussian Fund for Contemporary Art; through prior gifts of Leo S. Guthman, Florence S. McCormick, and Mary and Leigh Block; purchased with funds provided by Martin Friedman and Peggy Casey-Friedman; Marlene and Robert Baumgarten and Oscar L. Gerber Memorial endowment funds; purchased with funds provided by Betty and Edward Harris and David Egeland and Andrew Friedman
What to Notice
Five details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.
The figure's contorted pose, suggesting a sudden, forceful event.
The rough, almost torn textures of the papier-mâché surface.
The splashes of color, like paint thrown onto the form.
The way the light catches the sharp edges and angles of the sculpture.
1 more detail is waiting.
See all 5 in Art Whisper →Stand in front of it and listen
The full narration walks you through Krach — the story behind it, the details most visitors miss, and why it matters. Free in the Art Whisper app.
Philip West
1949–1997Philip West was an English painter whose career spanned from deeply traditional historical scenes like 'The Expulsion of Adam and Eve from Paradise' to vibrant modern works such as 'Red Box'.
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