WP3: Second Post

“Story” by William King is an intricate piece of art that can be interpreted many different ways. I feel the title plays a prominent role in addressing the argument because not only does the sculpture have a story to tell, but he also observes the stories of the public. Context shapes the argument greatly with the sculpture being outside and susceptible to the elements. There are two buildings, one parallel and the other perpendicular, that are in close proximity to this sculpture creating an enclosed environment. Facing the street creates an ethos of contemplation with the figure observing the lives of everyday people. Many features such as hue and visual hierarchy contribute to appealing to the common man. The entire entity is the same shade of silver with little variation which creates a unity within the piece. Silver can be seen clearly on both light and dark days and is thought of as sort of a middle ground. One example of this “middle ground” is a silver medal which is between a gold and bronze.

With all sculptures, but especially with this one, perspective is important. Looking from the side the only visible parts are the upper arm with a cigarette and the outstretched leg. These prominent features promote leisure and relaxation. Observing the piece from the back reveals more about its rhetorical strategies. Some factors contributing to pathos of relaxation are the fact that the left arm is resting on the stool, the figure is positioned off center, and the cigarette is visible over the top of the shoulder.

The material used to construct something is important when analyzing its argument. This piece is made out of aluminum which is a common element. Again we see how the argument appeals to the common man and his story. Another useful concept to consider is the era in which it was created. “Story” was created in 1970, a time when smoking wasn’t as frowned upon as it is now. People would smoke in the evenings after a hard day’s work in order to relax. I can imagine this figure sitting on the front porch during the evenings and observing the strangers that walked by. One important feature of this piece is that it is hermaphroditic, not focusing on one specific gender. This is an example of a high level of abstraction in order to appeal to a wide audience.

It is always wise to analyze the author along with his creation. “Story” was a gift by Blake King to the Sheldon Art Museum in honor of Norman A. Geske. It is possible that this creation is based on the story of Norman’s life. Maybe he lived a tough, stressful life and finally got to relax during retirement. He story was winding down yet he observed the stories of others from his front porch. Obviously, Norman must have been a positive influence for Blake King to donate this sculpture to the museum. With so many rhetorical strategies in play here, this piece can portray its argument to a diverse and widespread audience.