Bent of Mind (or similar from the 'Bent of Mind' or 'Human Spirit' series)
Outdoor monumental sculpture • Julian Voss-Andreae
Style & Movement
Contemporary Public Art / Bio-inspired Sculpture
Medium & Technique
Polished stainless steel; constructed through horizontal slicing and layering of planes to create a topographical or scanned human effect.
Creation Period
Circa 2010-2015
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10 to 12 feet in height; vertical monumental format.
Subject Description
A larger-than-life human figure composed of horizontal parallel plates. The sculpture plays with perception: from the front it appears solid, but as the viewer moves, the figure seems to disappear or merge with the surrounding urban environment, symbolizing the intersection of humanity, science, and nature.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; well-maintained as part of a corporate or public plaza collection.
Estimated Market Value
$150,000 - $350,000
Auction Estimate
$100,000 - $250,000
Provenance History
Commissioned or purchased for permanent display in a public/private urban plaza, likely in a major metropolitan center like New York City (notably found near Bryant Park/Grace Building area).
Art Historical Significance
Voss-Andreae is known for translating complex scientific concepts (quantum physics, protein structures) into tangible art. This work is significant for its use of the 'disappearing' effect, which challenges traditional sculptural mass and interacts dynamically with modern architecture.
Notable Features
The polished surfaces create a mirrored effect reflecting the glass skyscraper and surrounding greenery, making the piece highly site-specific through reflection despite its portable medium.
Condition Issues
Minor surface oxidation or hard water spotting typical of outdoor stainless steel; slight fingerprinting at the base level.
Conservation Recommendations
Periodic cleaning with non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner; surveillance for structural integrity of the welded plates; maintaining clear visibility and protection from pedestrian impact in the high-traffic plaza.