The Isaac Witkin bust was commissioned by J. Seward Johnson on behalf of both Grounds For Sculpture and the Atlantic Foundation in Hamilton, New Jersey.
Isaac Witkin, born in Johannesburg, South Africa, was an original member of the post-WWII’ New Generation’ British sculptors and studied under Anthony Caro at St. Martin’s School of Art in London. He later moved to the United States for an artist residency at Bennington College, where he remained among fellow St. Martin’s sculptors. His work was featured in the influential 1965 Primary Structures exhibition in New York. Witkin’s approach to art underwent a significant evolution over the sixties and seventies, transitioning from Constructivist assemblages to more spontaneous bronze sculptures, notably his ‘Spill’ series. From the late eighties, he developed two distinct bronze styles: expressive, smaller poured forms and monumental sculptures cast in the traditional method.
Isaac Witkin played a significant role with J. Seward Johnson in the development of Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ. His insights, gained from years of experience and a deep understanding of the art form, were instrumental in shaping the institution. In recognition of his legacy, both the Grounds and the Atlantic Foundation commissioned a commemorative bust of Isaac Witkin. This sculpture, a testament to his impact on modern sculpture and his contributions to the artistic community, now resides in the library at Grounds For Sculpture.