Kennedy Caspar- Eleanor Antin's "Constructing Helen" by Kennedy Caspar

Constructing Helen

kmcaspar — 2024-01-19 14:49:13 UTC

Materials

kmcaspar — 2024-01-25 02:44:05 UTC

Probably the most shocking quality of this piece is how the subjects appear to be sculptures, but in reality, are living models painted, photographed, and edited into the larger work. Antin was trying to replicate the appearance of classical art while using modern media.

Personal Response

kmcaspar — 2024-01-25 02:44:20 UTC

I find this work to be powerful due to its commentary on how women are portrayed within art and literature throughout history. Antin suggests the idea that while Helen was often a hated figure, she was merely a victim of her situation.

Scale

kmcaspar — 2024-01-25 15:44:00 UTC

Within the piece itself, Helen is significantly larger than her counterparts; the purpose of this difference in scale was to convey the idea that Helen was a "monster." The scale suggests that Helen is separate from the "human" characters that surround her.

Composition

kmcaspar — 2024-01-25 15:44:23 UTC

While Helen is the focus, the composition of the piece includes a variety of other characters in the background that are in the process of being created. These supporting artworks further the implication that Helen's reputation is a product of craftsmanship.

Harper's comment

hgedwards — 2024-01-25 16:13:18 UTC

I really like your analasis. I think one of your most intriguing notes is about the scale. Helen being bigger than the surrounding characters gives her a godly esq ora.

Freddy's Response

fcmurphy — 2024-01-25 16:20:37 UTC

I agree with you analysis and am impressed by Helen's use of portraying these stilled models to be sculptures.