Fulcrum (sculpture)

Fulcrum is a public sculpture created by American artist Richard Serra, located in London, England. It is a large, self-supporting sculpture constructed of weathering steel, also known as Cor-Ten steel.

Description:

Fulcrum is composed of four rectangular steel plates, each approximately 18 meters (59 feet) high. These plates lean inward towards each other, forming a gently curving, open space at the center. The reddish-brown color of the weathering steel results from a controlled oxidation process, which protects the steel from further corrosion and gives the sculpture its distinctive appearance. The plates are arranged in a way that creates a sense of precarious balance and tension, yet the structure is inherently stable. The surfaces of the plates are left raw and unpainted, displaying the texture and imperfections of the steel.

Location:

Fulcrum is situated in the Broadgate development, near Liverpool Street Station in the City of London. Its location in a busy urban environment allows viewers to experience the sculpture in contrast with its surroundings.

Meaning and Interpretation:

Serra's work often explores the relationship between sculpture, space, and the viewer's body. Fulcrum invites viewers to walk around and through the structure, experiencing its scale, mass, and the shifting perspectives created by its curved surfaces. The title "Fulcrum" refers to the central support or pivot point of a lever, hinting at the interplay of forces and balance present in the sculpture's design. The rusting steel also evokes a sense of industrial history and urban decay.

Reception:

Fulcrum, like much of Serra's work, has been both praised and criticized. Supporters appreciate its monumental scale, its minimalist aesthetic, and its ability to transform the surrounding space. Critics sometimes question the cost of the sculpture and its perceived lack of accessibility. Regardless of opinion, Fulcrum remains a prominent landmark and a significant example of contemporary public art in London.