Blog 4: Splotch #3

Splotch #3, 2000
Sol LeWitt

LeWitt was a renowned conceptual artist and this piece, Splotch #3, is on display on the roof of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In 2000, when this sculpture was created, it was doubtful that LeWitt had this picturesque location in mind for the placement of his art. Yet, clever placement is what makes this particular piece so striking. The contrast of the muted and dull buildings in the background and the Technicolor world that LeWitt created in the foreground, serves to prove LeWitt’s original point of livelihood, further than he may have originally intended.

When looking at this sculpture, the first thought that comes to mind is a child. The work is reminiscent of a toddler who has let loose with the Play-Doh. The vivid colors are prevalent and the shapes aren’t defined, contrary to many of LeWitt’s other work. He uses six colors: the complimentary colors are grouped together to elicit an emotion of delighted shock and the analogous colors seem faded in comparison. The various shapes of the peaks seem random, but the first thing that catches the eye is the tallest bright yellow crest. The dimension of this piece is 3’ by 12’, which is underwhelming when put in context with the other works in the series.

Splotch #3 is a reminder that adulthood doesn’t have to exclude happiness, joy, and youthfulness. The word “splotch” indicates the tone of the piece right away. In the background there are dreary buildings that stand taller than the images that LeWitt created yet, the focus immediately jumps right back to center concentrating on the exhilarating colors. To explain precisely what this piece means undermines the foundations of conceptual art. Interpretations and critical thinking are exactly what the artist is directing you to do.

Images Cited:
Green, Tyler. “Sol LeWitt on the Met's Roof.” 18 May 2005. 27 October 2008 http://www.artsjournal.com/man/2005/05/sol_lewitt_on_the_mets_roof.html.