The Cloud of Unknowing, Uncovering Existential Mysteries through Layers of Abstraction and Ethereal Hues!

Ursula von Rydingsvard, a contemporary sculptor based in New York but born in Poland, creates monumental works that evoke powerful emotions and provoke profound reflection on the human condition. Her “Cloud of Unknowing” (2016) stands as a captivating example of her mastery over cedar wood and its transformative potential. This imposing sculpture, composed of hundreds of intricately carved blocks, resembles a colossal cloud suspended mid-air, defying gravity with its ethereal lightness.

Von Rydingsvard’s artistic process is deeply intuitive. She begins by sketching preliminary ideas before translating them into three-dimensional forms using cedar wood – a material chosen for its durability and responsiveness to carving. The artist meticulously carves each block, layering textures and patterns that reveal the inherent beauty and complexity of the wood grain.

The blocks are then stacked and assembled with remarkable precision, creating a structure that appears both organic and meticulously planned. The final result is a monolithic sculpture that invites viewers to contemplate its scale, texture, and subtle shifts in light and shadow.

A Symphony of Texture and Form

“The Cloud of Unknowing,” standing over eleven feet tall and ten feet wide, dominates the space it occupies. Its sheer size evokes a sense of awe and insignificance in the viewer, prompting contemplation on our place within the vastness of the universe.

The sculpture’s surface is a marvel of texture. Von Rydingsvard’s skilled carving creates an interplay of smooth curves, jagged edges, and undulating planes. This tactile complexity invites viewers to trace their fingers along the wood’s contours, experiencing the sculpture not just visually but physically as well.

As light interacts with the surface, subtle shifts in tone and hue emerge. The cedar wood’s natural color is accentuated by the artist’s careful sanding and polishing, revealing a spectrum of warm browns, honey golds, and deep reddish hues. These variations create a sense of depth and movement within the sculpture, mirroring the ever-changing nature of clouds themselves.

Deconstructing the Title: A Journey into Existential Reflection

The title “Cloud of Unknowing” refers to a 14th-century English devotional text that explores the mystical journey toward God. In this context, the “cloud of unknowing” represents the state of blissful ignorance that precedes spiritual enlightenment. Von Rydingsvard’s sculpture echoes this notion through its enigmatic form and suggestive title, inviting viewers to contemplate the mysteries of existence and the ineffable nature of faith.

The artist’s work often explores themes of spirituality, memory, and the passage of time. “The Cloud of Unknowing,” with its ethereal presence and subtle symbolism, serves as a powerful metaphor for our own journey toward understanding the unknown. Like clouds that shift and transform in response to wind currents, our thoughts and beliefs evolve over time, ultimately leading us toward a deeper awareness of ourselves and the world around us.

Exploring Artistic Influences and Parallels:

Von Rydingsvard’s work draws inspiration from a diverse range of sources, including ancient megalithic structures, natural landscapes, and medieval monastic architecture. These influences are evident in the monumental scale and evocative form of “The Cloud of Unknowing.” The sculpture’s towering height and layered construction recall the grandeur of ancient temples and cathedrals, while its organic contours and textured surface evoke the raw beauty of nature.

Comparing Von Rydingsvard’s work to that of other contemporary sculptors reveals intriguing parallels. For instance, the large-scale wooden sculptures of Anish Kapoor often feature smooth, polished surfaces that reflect light in captivating ways. However, Kapoor’s works tend towards minimalist geometric forms, while Von Rydingsvard’s embrace a more organic and expressive aesthetic.

Similarly, the work of Louise Bourgeois explores themes of memory, trauma, and the subconscious mind through powerful figurative sculptures. While both artists delve into profound emotional territory, Bourgeois often employs jarring imagery and unsettling juxtapositions, whereas Von Rydingsvard’s approach is characterized by a sense of serene contemplation and spiritual yearning.

“The Cloud of Unknowing” as a Timeless Reflection

Von Rydingsvard’s “The Cloud of Unknowing” transcends its physical form and becomes a conduit for profound emotional experiences.

Its presence in a gallery space evokes a sense of wonder and quiet contemplation, encouraging viewers to delve into their own inner landscapes and explore the mysteries of existence. The sculpture’s ethereal beauty and suggestive title invite interpretation and reflection, reminding us that the journey toward understanding is often as valuable as the destination itself.