An abstract sculpture of a humanoid figure covered in draped fabric, displayed outdoors surrounded by trees.

Erwin Wurm: Balzac

Art Outdoors /

Erwin Wurm: Balzac

This 3.2m high painted aluminium work was created during preparations for Erwin Wurm’s Trap of the Truth exhibition, which was on display at YSP in summer 2023–2024.

The title Balzac was given to the work on its completion, in recognition of Rodin’s seminal sculpture, Monument to Balzac (1898), in which the poet is shown swathed in his robe so that clothing and figure meld together. In Wurm’s enigmatic sculpture, a figure is consumed by contemporary clothing and handbags, or perhaps is the consumer of luxury goods.
 

Balzac was generously gifted to YSP by Erwin Wurm in 2024, joining the permanent collection.

  • An abstract sculpture of a humanoid figure covered in draped fabric, displayed outdoors surrounded by trees.
  • An abstract sculpture of a humanoid figure covered in draped fabric, displayed outdoors surrounded by trees.
  • An abstract sculpture of a humanoid figure covered in draped fabric, displayed outdoors surrounded by trees.

Balzac makes a significant contribution to our collection of modern and contemporary sculpture and beautifully extends our history of art narrative in a work that is both figurative and abstract. Balzac stands as a legacy of a dynamic, engaging and highly memorable exhibition, and we are happy that future visitors to YSP will be able to experience this work in the 18th century landscape. I’m deeply grateful to Erwin for the generosity he has shown Yorkshire Sculpture Park over the course of the development and presentation of a quite wonderful exhibition and in gifting this important work to us.

- Clare Lilley, YSP Director

Explore our grounds

You may also like

  1. Idit Nathan and Helen Stratford Further Afield at Yorkshire Sculpture Park
    Art Outdoors

    Idit Nathan and Helen Stratford: Further Afield

    Further Afield is a series of sculptures sited around the Upper Lake for visitors to encounter and respond to. Each work is made from wooden railway sleepers, with words engraved on the surface. Certain words have been highlighted by the artists using brightly coloured paint. Over time, the wood will age and become embedded in the landscape of the Park.
  2. A person with long, grey hair sits on a chair in a workshop, carefully working with thick ropes. Surrounding them are large, woven structures and tools, creating a creative and industrious atmosphere. Natural light filters through the space.

    LR Vandy: Rise

    –
    Rise is an ambitious first solo museum exhibition by LR Vandy, created for The Weston Gallery.
    Gallery opening time: 11.00–16.00
  3. A bronze bust of a human head displayed on a tall grey plinth outdoors with climbing plants behind it.
    Art Outdoors

    Elisabeth Frink: In Memoriam II

    Frink succeeds in capturing a sense of defiance with In Memoriam II as the features of the figure express great sadness but also a sense of dignity.
  4. Event

    Seizure Admission

    –
    In order to conserve the artwork and extend it's lifespan, access to Seizure is by pre-booked time slot only. Capacity is limited and we recommend booking prior to your visit to avoid disappointment. Admission to YSP is included in all Seizure tickets.