Reflections on Rodin's Artistry: From Le Penseur to The Camille Years

Rodin’s work continues to captivate us with its profound depths and intricate details. One cannot discuss his art without mentioning Le Penseur, a severely scrutinized and often satirized piece. However, when visiting the Rodin Museum in Paris, I had the privilege of seeing the magnificent Mother and Child sculpture, a tender and moving portrayal of maternal love. This sculpture in white marble depicts a mother holding a child in her arms, with the child almost invisible, blending into the marble. It serves as a protective embrace, highlighting Rodin’s mastery in creating such intimate and touching scenes.

Tragic Discovery: Rodin’s Shades at Ground Zero

Perhaps one of the most poignant and evocative pieces of Rodin’s work is the Shades, a life-size bronze that was recovered from the World Trade Center site. This particular sculpture is a larger version of one of the identical figures standing atop the Gates of Hell. After the tragic events of September 11, the excavation team found the charred and nearly intact body of this figure laying peacefully at the bottom of one of the ruined buildings. The significance of Shades cannot be overstated—its recovery and placement at the World Trade Center site marked a profound connection between art and human suffering, allowing Rodin’s work to partake in the healing process.

Intimate Pieces in My Living Room

During my time as an art student, the presence of Le Penseur held a special place in my heart. The sheer presence of the bronze figure, with its triangular form and powerful pose, was awe-inspiring. Its original context, atop the Gates of Hell, adds a layer of complexity and intrigue. However, the frequent portrayal of Le Penseur as a toilet-sitting figure has led to questions about its original meaning and purpose.

In my living room, I can still feel the impact of Rodin’s work. It is a collection that includes not just Rodin, but also the works of Michelangelo and Bernini. The proximity of these sculptures has allowed me to touch and appreciate them on a personal level. They serve as a constant reminder of the emotional and physical connection art can have with its observers.

A Deep Dive into The Camille Years

One of the most fascinating periods in Rodin’s work is referred to as the Camille Claudel years. During this time, his collaborations with Claudel led to a reduction in the overt sexual themes in his sculptures, with a greater focus on the sensual and sympathetic portrayal of the female form. This was a significant shift that greatly influenced his later works.

Art as a Medium of Expression and Healing

Art, particularly sculpture, has the power to heal and offer a new perspective on our experiences. Rodin’s Shades at the World Trade Center site exemplifies this. It serves as a symbol of resilience and a connection to the human spirit. Similarly, the presence of Rodin’s works in a living room setting offers a sense of comfort and a shared human experience, bridging the gap between the artist and the observer.

As I reflect on Rodin’s art, I find myself revisiting the Camille Years, where the softness and sensuality of his sculptures transformed his work into something profoundly moving. The close observation of these sculptures in my living room serves as a daily reminder of the power and influence of art.