Early Life and Education
Claes Oldenburg, a renowned Swedish-American sculptor, was born on January 28, 1929, in Stockholm, Sweden. His father, Gösta Oldenburg, was a Swedish diplomat, and the family moved to Chicago when Claes was young. He attended the Latin School of Chicago and later studied literature and art history at Yale University from 1946 to 1950.
Artistic Career
Oldenburg's artistic career began in the late 1950s, with his first recorded sales of artworks at the 57th Street Art Fair in Chicago. He moved to New York City in 1956, where he met artists like Jim Dine, Red Grooms, and Allan Kaprow, who influenced his work. Oldenburg's soft sculpture pieces, made from materials like cardboard, burlap, and newspapers, gained popularity in the 1960s.
Notable Works and Collaborations
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Split Button (Pop Art,): A notable example of Oldenburg's soft sculpture work.
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The Store (1961): A month-long installation featuring sculptures in the form of consumer goods.
* Collaboration with his wife,
Coosje van Bruggen, who died in 2009 after 32 years of marriage.
Museums and Collections
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Moderna Museet (Stockholm, Sweden): Features a collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Oldenburg.
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Staedtische Galerie im Lenbachhaus (Munich, Germany): Houses an impressive collection of artworks, including pieces by Oldenburg.
Key Takeaways:
* Claes Oldenburg's soft sculpture pieces and public art installations have become iconic in modern art.
* His collaborations with his wife, Coosje van Bruggen, are a testament to their creative partnership.
* Oldenburg's work can be found in various museums, including Moderna Museet and Staedtische Galerie im Lenbachhaus.