Abstract Sculpture

Cecil C. Carstensen was born in Marquette, Kansas in 1906. In 1940, he moved to Kansas City with his wife Blanche and became a part of the art community. Carstensen primarily worked in wood carving, however, woodcut printmaking was another important medium. He taught wood sculpting at the Kansas City University and was President of MidAmerica Artists Association. He wrote "Craft and Creation of Wood Sculpting" in 1971. The Kansas City Public Library has four of Carstensen’s wood sculptures in their art collection. This abstract sculpture calls to mind elements of nature. Upon first glance, it is reminiscent of the flames of a fire, but another glance suggests a tree. The beauty of abstract art is that possibilities abound. Carstensen and Blanche’s woodcut prints were part of a Print Society of Great Kansas City Spotlight in 2013. The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art in St. Joseph, MO has two woodcuts by Carstensen entitled "Family Unit."
Abstract Sculpture
Abstract Sculpture
Abstract Sculpture, artist's signature
Abstract Sculpture
Abstract Sculpture
Abstract Sculpture, artist's signature
Inventory
Collection Number
17381
Building
Current Location
Missouri Valley Room
Floor
5th
Description
Details
This is an abstract sculpture carved from a single piece of wood.
Artist Dates
1906 - 1991
Artist Nationality
American
Framed
No
Width
8 inches
Height
34 inches
Length
18 inches
Object Type
Permissions
Reproduce the Work in Library publications/publicity, including film or videotape
Yes
Reproduce
Library has Photography Rights
Yes
Photograph
Permit the general public to photograph the work
Yes
Slides/Video