June 17, 1998 – August 31, 1998
Even though the medium of bronze is certainly strong enough to stand up to the elements, many Rodin sculptures are never seen outdoors. Rodin at Rockefeller Center provided a unique opportunity to experience the artist’s monumental sculpture as it was often shown during his lifetime: in the open air. Seen against the spectacular backdrop of Rockefeller Center, the exhibition of eight outsized bronzes revealed Rodin’s revolutionary approach to the human figure.
“I used to think art was for other people, not ordinary people like us. But as our family’s appreciation of art grows, I can see that art is for everyone, maybe even especially for ordinary people. Your sharing of the Rodin sculptures has allowed me to give our children the gift of sharing and appreciating beautiful works. It is a priceless gift.”
Beginning on Fifth Avenue, The Three Shades invited visitors to walk along the Channel Gardens, which were beautifully planted in the tradition of French formal gardens during Rodin’s time. At a central grove, visitors found an intimate setting to view Whistler’s Muse, Meditation and Monumental Torso of the Walking Man, as well as figures from The Burghers of Calais. At the western end of the promenade, overlooking the Center’s café, The Thinker capped the exhibition.
Rodin at Rockefeller Center captured media attention both here and abroad. Japanese television featured the show, as did American television and newspapers. Iris Cantor and Rachael Blackburn, then serving as Foundation director, were interviewed often. Katie Couric and Matt Lauer interviewed Mrs. Cantor on the Today Show.
This project was a collaboration between the Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Foundation and the Public Art Fund.
