Flight in Attitude, Column, 2019
Richard MacDonald
Bronze
79" x 18" x 20.75"
Richard MacDonald American, b. 1946
Study for the Rose, Half Life, 2005
Bronze
32.25" x 21.5" x 15"
BAL043NU
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“Study for the Rose, Half Life” draws on Richard MacDonald’s highly developed sensitivity for the experience of the dancer, and displays all the quiet beauty of a private moment of reflection. In half-life size the supple and delicate form of the ballerina has real substance—an almost-breathing presence that immediately draws us to wonder at the thoughts of the ballerina toying with the ribbon on her shoe. Her youth and preoccupation give a sense of life and warmth to the sculpture; the beautiful line of her arm draped over the bar is a study in the effortless grace of the well-trained dancer. Her soft cheek rests on her shoulder, and we feel the tenderness of her childish daydream—yet she holds the posture of an accomplished professional. A study in contrasts, this piece has the timeless appeal associated with the ballet works by Degas, with the unmistakable character that can only be attributed to Richard MacDonald himself.
“Study for the Rose, Half Life” draws on Richard MacDonald’s highly developed sensitivity for the experience of the dancer, and displays all the quiet beauty of a private moment of reflection. In half-life size the supple and delicate form of the ballerina has real substance—an almost-breathing presence that immediately draws us to wonder at the thoughts of the ballerina toying with the ribbon on her shoe. Her youth and preoccupation give a sense of life and warmth to the sculpture; the beautiful line of her arm draped over the bar is a study in the effortless grace of the well-trained dancer. Her soft cheek rests on her shoulder, and we feel the tenderness of her childish daydream—yet she holds the posture of an accomplished professional. A study in contrasts, this piece has the timeless appeal associated with the ballet works by Degas, with the unmistakable character that can only be attributed to Richard MacDonald himself.
