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The Thinkers

2014
(American, b. 1961)
America
digital chromogenic print
Framed: 270.4 x 180.3 cm (106 7/16 x 71 in.); Unframed: 270.4 x 180.3 cm (106 7/16 x 71 in.)
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 2015.16
© Vik Muniz / Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY
Edition: edition of 6
Location: not on view
Copyright
This artwork is known to be under copyright.

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Did You Know?

Just as the museum is a storehouse for civilizations’ cultural past, The Thinkers is a repository for individuals’ pasts.

Description

Scale is a critical component in the experience of viewing this photographic enlargement of a collage. From a distance, you see a couple posing around 1940 by Rodin’s The Thinker at the south facade of the Cleveland Museum of Art. When approached, that image dissolves into hundreds of snippets of other people’s family photos pasted together. Even the overall image is based on a snapshot from the artist’s collection of found photographs. Their original context and meaning have been lost, yet the images evoke nostalgia for our own family mementos and encourage us to think about the nature and uses of photography then and now.
The Thinkers

The Thinkers

2014

Vik Muniz

(American, b. 1961)
America

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    Auguste Rodin
    by Jane Mayo Roos Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) was the foremost sculptor of the nineteenth century, creating such iconic, profoundly expressive works as The Kiss, The Thinker, and The Gates of Hell. In this engaging monograph, Jane Mayo Roos gives an informative overview of the life and works of Rodin and treats all his major works in their biographical, social, and historical context.From his early sculptures made during his pursuit of recognition by the art establishment to his high-profile portraits and public commissions, numerous illustrations present Rodin's works in situ and in detail. They are accompanied by drawings and contemporary photographs of maquettes and of the artist with his work. The greatest sculptures, including The Burghers of Calais and portraits of Victor Hugo and Honore de Balzac, are thoroughly examined through accounts of their commission, design, and making. 208 pages Published 2010
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    Artist: Auguste Rodin Created: modeled 1880 – 81 Dimensions (cm): Enlarged 1902 -4, cast 1919 Format: Bronze Location: Rodin Museum A collaboration with the Rodin Museum of the Philadelphia Museum of Art that is sure to get you thinking... 80% Combed Cotton, 17% Polyamide, 3% Elastane. Made in Portugal using the most advanced craftsmanship to produce the finest seamless socks. Wash inside out (40ºC/100ºF max). Do not tumble dry, iron.
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    Auguste Rodin's The Thinker dates to the late 19th century. Beloved by millions, the sculpture has been cast 28 times and is in collections around the world. Gain a new perspectives on your own thoughts as you hold The Thinker in your hands. Keep your globe out of direct sunlight. Sunlight shining through the water is a magnifier and can cause a fire. Sunlight can also cause the water to discolor. Dust with a soft cloth. Glass cleaner is fine on the globe. CoolSnowGlobes are made of glass and are not toys for children.
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    The Thinker • Enamel Pin
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