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Robert Grosvenor's Minimalist Sculptures Command Space at Paula Cooper Gallery

exhibition · 2026-04-22

Three sculptures from Robert Grosvenor's middle period were displayed at Paula Cooper Gallery in Chelsea from February 5 to March 6, 2010. The exhibition featured works dated 1986/87, 1991, and 1994, all untitled and constructed from industrial materials like concrete, steel, plastic, fiberglass, and paint. Despite their age, these assemblages maintained a surprising vitality. Grosvenor, known for his anti-Romantic stance, rejects metaphorical interpretations of his work, emphasizing its visual presence over emotive intent. The earliest piece, Untitled, 1986-87, includes a concrete slab on a blue tarp and a corrugated metal canopy supported by fence posts with wheel-like disks. While composed of found objects, the sculptures create a powerful spatial and emotional impact, suggesting protective shelter and human references. This show coincided with Grosvenor's inclusion in the 2010 Whitney Biennial, highlighting his significance in minimalist art.

Key facts

  • Exhibition dates: February 5 – March 6, 2010
  • Location: Paula Cooper Gallery, 534 W 21st Street, New York City, 10011
  • Artist: Robert Grosvenor
  • Number of works: three sculptures
  • Works dated: 1986/87, 1991, 1994
  • Materials: concrete, steel, plastic, fiberglass, paint
  • Grosvenor rejects metaphorical interpretations of his art
  • Exhibition coincided with Grosvenor's inclusion in the 2010 Whitney Biennial

Entities

Artists

  • Robert Grosvenor

Institutions

  • Paula Cooper Gallery
  • Whitney Biennial

Locations

  • New York City
  • United States
  • Chelsea

Sources