Nancy Grossman is a highly regarded American artist whose work is characterized by her unique combination of abstract and figurative elements. Born in New York City in 1940, Grossman grew up in a creative environment and began making art at an early age. She studied at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn and later at the Yale School of Art, where she received her MFA in 1969. Grossman's work is known for its use of unconventional materials, such as leather, metal, and found objects. She often incorporates these materials into her sculptures, which range from small-scale objects to large installations. Her work is deeply rooted in the human experience, exploring themes of power, identity, and gender through the use of masks, helmets, and other forms of protective headgear. One of Grossman's most notable works is her series of head sculptures, which she began creating in the late 1960s. These sculptures are made from a combination of leather, metal, and other materials, and are often adorned with intricate details such as spikes, studs, and chains. They are meant to be both protective and confrontational, reflecting Grossman's interest in exploring the complex dynamics of power and vulnerability. In addition to her sculptures, Grossman is also known for her works on paper, which often feature abstract compositions and bold, graphic lines. These works are characterized by their dynamic energy and expressive use of color, and are a testament to Grossman's skill as a draftsman. Overall, Nancy Grossman is a highly influential artist whose work has had a significant impact on the field of sculpture. Her unique combination of abstract and figurative elements, along with her use of unconventional materials, has helped to redefine the boundaries of the medium and has inspired generations of artists to follow in her footsteps.
Nancy Grossman, American artist, sculpture, abstract, figurative, leather, metal, masks, helmets, power, vulnerability, protective, confrontational, works on paper, abstract compositions, graphic lines, dynamic energy, expressive use of color, influential
CITATION : "Matthew Lopez. 'Nancy Grossman.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=271352 (Accessed on July 16, 2025)"
Nancy Grossman is an American artist renowned for her figurative-abstract sculpture and paper constructions. Her work is often composed of heavy leather and metal elements, which are built up to create both organic abstractions and figurative forms. Grossman's works often combine both feminine and masculine elements, as seen in her sculptures of headgear, armoirs, and masks. These works are often thought to be a commentary on gender power dynamics, while also reflecting her unique sense of style. Important works of Grossman's include Head (1970), Untitled (1970), Helmet (1972), and Tower (1973).
Nancy Grossman, American artist, abstract sculpture, paper constructions, leather, metal, organic abstraction, figurative forms, gender power dynamics, headgear, armoirs, masks, Head 1970, Untitled 1970, Helmet 1972, Tower 1973.
— Mei Wang
We have 216.545 Topics and 472.615 Entries and Nancy Grossman has 2 entries on Design+Encyclopedia. Design+Encyclopedia is a free encyclopedia, written collaboratively by designers, creators, artists, innovators and architects. Become a contributor and expand our knowledge on Nancy Grossman today.