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Two Figures

Explore Dame Barbara Hepworth’s ‘Two Figures,’ a 1947 pencil sketch of two figures in a theatrical setting. Admire its expressive lines, romantic style & melancholic mood.

Explore the modernist sculptures of Dame Barbara Hepworth (1903-1975). A pioneer of abstract art, Hepworth's work – including 'Oval Form' & 'Two Forms' – blends surrealism and abstraction. Discover her legacy at the Hepworth Wakefield.

Giclée / Art Print

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Total Price

$ 63

reproduction

Two Figures

Giclée / Art Print

Reproduction Size

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Total Price

$ 63

Quick Facts

  • Location: Newfields Art Museum
  • Movement: Modernism
  • Influences: Surrealism
  • Artist: Barbara Hepworth
  • Year: 1947
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Notable elements or techniques: Circular holes, Patination

Collectible Description

Two Figures by Barbara Hepworth

Barbara Hepworth’s “Two Figures,” created in 1947, stands as a testament to the enduring power of abstraction and Hepworth's pioneering role in shaping modern sculpture. This pencil sketch captures a moment of quiet contemplation, embodying Hepworth’s signature style—characterized by elegant curves and geometric precision—within a theatrical framework.

The artwork depicts two stylized figures positioned on a rectilinear base. Each figure is conceived as a lozenge shape, rising vertically with surfaces angled inward toward the center. This deliberate asymmetry contributes to the sculpture's dynamic tension, hinting at movement and interaction despite its stillness. Hepworth’s masterful use of graphite creates a textured surface that subtly conveys depth without resorting to detailed rendering.

Hepworth’s approach aligns closely with the broader artistic currents of her time—the Unit One Art Movement—which sought to synthesize Surrealism and Abstraction in British art. Influenced by artists like Piet Mondrian and Constantin Brâncuși, Hepworth championed a visual language that prioritized form and space over representational accuracy. The sketch’s muted palette reinforces this aesthetic sensibility.

Symbolically, “Two Figures” speaks to themes of collaboration and control—the figures' positioning suggests an interplay between dominance and submission. The circular holes cut into the front surfaces are a hallmark of Hepworth’s technique, serving as windows that invite contemplation and highlighting the artist’s fascination with materiality and perception. These holes echo the influence of Japanese Zen philosophy, emphasizing emptiness and interconnectedness.

The artwork's melancholic mood is heightened by its aged paper appearance—a deliberate choice reflecting Hepworth’s commitment to capturing a timeless essence. “Two Figures” remains an evocative exploration of form, gesture, and emotion, cementing Hepworth’s legacy as one of Britain’s most influential sculptors.

  • Artist: Barbara Hepworth
  • Year Created: 1947
  • Medium: Pencil Sketch
  • Movement: Unit One Art Movement
  • Location: The Ingram Collection of Modern British and Contemporary Art

Further exploration into Hepworth’s oeuvre can be found at Art UK and The Hepworth Wakefield.


Artist Biography

early life and education

dame barbara hepworth, a renowned english artist and sculptor, was born on january 10, 1903, in wakefield, yorkshire. she attended the leeds school of art from 1920 and later won a county scholarship to study at the royal college of art (rca) in london from 1921 until she was awarded the diploma in 1924.

artistic career

  • dame barbara hepworth's work exemplifies modernism, particularly modern sculpture. she was one of the few female artists to achieve international prominence.
  • in 1933, she co-founded the unit one art movement with ben nicholson, paul nash, and others, seeking to unite surrealism and abstraction in british art.
  • hepworth's early work was characterized by abstraction and her involvement with the paris-based art movement, abstraction-création.

notable works and exhibitions

legacy and museum collections

barbara hepworth's work is widely recognized, with her sculptures and paintings forming part of various museum collections worldwide. the hepworth wakefield, named after the artist, houses numerous masterpieces from renowned artists, including hepworth's own works. (discover more about the hepworth wakefield on ArtsDot)

conclusion

dame barbara hepworth's pioneering work in modern british sculpture has left an indelible mark on the art world. her legacy continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike, with her works remaining a testament to her innovative spirit and artistic genius. more about barbara hepworth on wikipedia
Barbara Hepworth

Barbara Hepworth

1903 - 1975 , United Kingdom

Quick Facts

  • Artistic Movement Or Style: Modernism, Abstraction
  • Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist:
    • Abstraction-Création
    • Unit One
  • Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
    • Henry Moore
    • Ben Nicholson
  • Date Of Birth: 1903-01-10
  • Date Of Death: 1975-05-20
  • Full Name: Barbara Hepworth
  • Nationality: British
  • Notable Artworks:
    • Oval Form (Trezion)
    • Two Forms
    • Totem
  • Place Of Birth: Wakefield, UK
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