Full Figure and Portraiture 1926-1941 February 4, 2009

The Noguchi Museum exhibits a full figure bronze sculpture, entitled 'Undine (Nadja),' in its first public exhibition since the 1920s. Isamu Noguchi's unique vision emerged in response to the Western figurative traditions and techniques he experienced firsthand in the workshop of the sculptor Gutzon Borglum and through his mentor, Onorio Ruotolo. Organized around 'Undine,' this exhibit also highlights a selection of portrait busts from the permanent collection which illustrate Noguchi's growing confidence owing to his formative academic training and a natural gift for incisive portraiture.