Barbara Hepworth: Prototype for Construction (Crucifixion) – A Reflection on Faith and Form

Barbara Hepworth’s *Prototype for Construction (Crucifixion)* stands as a testament to both artistic innovation and profound spiritual contemplation. Created in 1966, this monumental aluminum sculpture embodies Hepworth's unwavering belief system while simultaneously exploring the fundamental principles of modern art – abstraction, geometric precision, and the interplay between material and space.

The artwork’s genesis lies in Hepworth’s preoccupation with reconciling faith and artistic expression. Following a serious illness, she sought solace in creating *Construction (Crucifixion)* as an act of deliberate intention, driven by a desire to translate her inner convictions into tangible form. This impulse is palpable in the sculpture's serene stillness – a stark contrast to the turbulent emotions Hepworth herself experienced during that period.

Technically masterful, *Prototype for Construction (Crucifixion)* showcases Hepworth’s pioneering approach to aluminum fabrication. Constructed by her workshop assistants at Palais de Danse, it utilizes L-section aluminum tubing and sheets meticulously joined together. The surface is coated with paint – specifically Citrus Yellow, Post Office Red, and Cornish Blue – applied directly onto the metal substrate. Two detailed construction drawings survive, offering invaluable insight into Hepworth’s meticulous planning process.

Beyond its technical achievements, *Prototype for Construction (Crucifixion)* operates on multiple symbolic levels. The circular form itself represents wholeness and eternity—a visual echo of Christian iconography referencing the divine circle surrounding God. Hepworth deliberately eschewed representational imagery, prioritizing instead the exploration of pure geometric shapes to convey spiritual concepts. This decision reflects a broader trend within modern art – a rejection of illusionistic techniques in favor of confronting viewers with fundamental truths about existence.

Currently residing at The Hepworth Wakefield in Wakefield, United Kingdom, *Prototype for Construction (Crucifixion)* continues to captivate audiences with its understated elegance and intellectual depth. Its enduring appeal stems from Hepworth’s ability to distill complex spiritual ideas into a powerfully evocative sculptural form—a masterpiece that exemplifies the transformative potential of art.