Sleepwalker

Most of Kiki Smith’s sculpture is figurative and implies a narrative. Smith, whose variety of work includes drawings and prints, is best known for her sculpture. Works like Sleepwalker frequently focus on a stylized female figure engaged in slow-moving activity that seems to express a dreamlike or visionary image. Although the dark, rich patina is not typical for the artist, it encourages the sculpture’s nocturnal theme. Smith is the daughter of American sculptor Tony Smith, who helped influence her career by having her assist in making cardboard models for his geometric sculptures. His work is also included in our permanent collection.

Kiki Smith. Sleepwalker, 2002–2008. Bronze, 86 x 54 x 42.5 inches. Gift of Fred and Lena Meijer. © 2002-2008 Kiki Smith.